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A thankful movement to support CPD officers
n BY DAN CAMPANA
Three little words can go a long way to help support Chicago Police Officers during what has been a tumultuous and danger- ous year.
That’s what spurred the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation to launch its #ThankACop social media campaign in September to encourage city residents to simply print off a pre-designed thank-you note and hand it to an officer as a sign of gratitude.
“We want our officers to realize that while many are protesting against them, the silent majority supports police officers,” said CPMF’s Bridget Schuda. “We have had a really great response so far.”
CPMF noted that as of late August, 51 Chicago Police Officers had been shot at, with 10 of them being struck by gunfire. That, coupled with persistent public scrutiny and long hours during a summer filled with unrest on the streets, has undoubtedly led to a decline in morale.
“It is up to us, as the community, to thank these officers and let them know we appreciate the work they are doing,” said CPMF Executive Director Phil Cline. “We encourage everyone to stop and say ‘thank you’ when you see an officer.”
More information — and the thank-you cards — can be found by visiting www.thankacop.net
Districts run together for a better city
The Youth District advisory council and the 5th, 10th 11th and 15th districts partnered with Strides for Peace, an organization that works to end gun violence throughout Chicago, for a socially distanced 5K on Sept. 19.
The race took place in Columbus Park, featuring candid pre- run conversations about the impact of gun violence on the West Side and bringing discussions about prevention to the forefront.
48 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ OCTOBER 2020