#United States #Chicago #Cook County #Maria Pappas #Black History Month

Cook County Celebrates Black History Month

Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is set to celebrate Black History Month in style with a special event at the Cook County Treasurer’s Office. Scheduled for February 27, 2026, this celebration not only marks a significant moment for community recognition but also showcases the vibrant artistry within the African American community.

Who Will Be Honored?

Pappas will present Certificates of Excellence to notable civic leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists who have made significant contributions to the community. Honorees include:

• - Quentin Curtis, Founder of Black Fire Brigade
• - Shawanna and Jackie Edwards, Owners of Let's Taco Restaurant
• - Theos Griffin, Owner of Soul Shack Express
• - Dave Jeff, Founder of PHLI
• - Phillip Scott Sinclair, Owner of NYCH Art Gallery
• - Raymi Smith, a celebrated singer, dancer, and songwriter
• - Mother Josephine Wade, Owner of Josephine’s Southern Cooking
• - Draymond Washington, Founder of Three Cities Social
• - Geoffrey Watts, Performance poet and activist
• - Payten Wilborn, Owner of Truth Italian Restaurant
• - The African Line Dancers of St. Benedict

The event will also feature a display from the NYCH Art Gallery, offering attendees an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural expressions of the community. Alongside the visual art, guests can enjoy live singing and dancing performances, making this a multi-faceted celebration of heritage and talent.

Why This Celebration Matters

Since taking office in 1998, Treasurer Pappas has actively worked alongside Black leaders to address systemic issues within the property tax system that adversely impact Black families. Her work has been crucial in reforming a system that has long hindered the ability of many to build generational wealth. Through her efforts, over 300 Black churches have been saved from predatory tax buyers. Furthermore, Pappas has played an instrumental role in informing homeowners about potential refunds for missed exemptions and past overpayments, resulting in more than $394 million being reimbursed to Black homeowners since March 2020.

In her ongoing commitment to educate and empower the community, Pappas also hosts the weekly radio show “Black Houses Matter” on WVON-AM 1690, where she shares essential information regarding property ownership and related financial opportunities.

Join the Celebration

The Black History Month event will take place at the Cook County Treasurer's Office, located at 118 N. Clark St., Room 112, Chicago, Illinois, starting at 3 p.m. on Friday, February 27. This celebration is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and leadership within the Black community, and it invites everyone to acknowledge and honor these contributions.

The event promises to be a vibrant gathering that not only highlights significant achievements but also fosters a spirit of unity and collaboration among community members. In recognizing these leaders and their achievements, Cook County continues to pave the way for a more equitable and supportive environment for all residents.

As we celebrate Black History Month, let us reflect on the impact made by these leaders and support the ongoing work towards social justice and empowerment.