A Conversation with a Congresswoman.
On October 16, UCM hosted a conversation with the US Representative for Illinois’ 13th Congressional District and Rev. Charles Burton, Vice President of UCM board of directors.
I’ll admit, before coming to UCM, I was one of those people who didn’t pay much attention to politics. It wasn’t that I did not care, but it became overwhelming. Politicians seemed to talk a good game but rarely did I see them put their actions where their mouths were. Trying to keep up with civic issues became hopelessly overwhelming so I attempted to “protect my peace” by staying out of it, leaving my engagement at voting blindly come elections.
It was an awful plan: Being ignorant to the actual issues, but also not knowing my full civic responsibility. After a couple of years with UCM, I truly understand that voting is actually the first step. The bare minimum of our responsibility to our communities, to our democracy.
Accountability is the hard part. For our elected representatives and our communities.
During UCM’s recent fireside chat with Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski, we got to see first hand what accountability looks like; open communication, active engagement, and honestly…just being present.
“Accountability looks like showing up. And not taking ‘no’ for an answer. The people in our counties do a great job of doing that. In this administration, walking away can feel easier because it’s so frustrating...but keep showing up.”
On October 16, UCM hosted a conversation with the US Representative for Illinois’ 13th Congressional District and Rev. Charles Burton, Vice President of UCM board of directors. This intimate conversation was hosted at First United Presbyterian Church in Granite City, Illinois. Although this was just one stop of her day with constituents, Congresswoman Budzinski took care of each question and concern presented.
The topics discussed ranged from public safety, infrastructure and environmental concerns, economic growth and community investment, and more.
Now in her 2nd term, the Congresswoman not only outlined her beliefs and plan of action for the future, she backed her platform with action.
One of UCM’s goals in the near future is to get the younger generation more involved in community decision making, specifically around civic engagement. While out in the community, we notice an inter-generational disconnect that needs to be addressed and Budzinski wholeheartedly agreed.
““A lot of adults are talking at young people...I really think it’s important to listen.” she said.”
Dear Democracy…is a program created by UCM’s policy lead, Kayla Branigan, to meet them where they are; community events, college campuses, and more. The Congresswoman was interested in the program and encouraged the connection.
Riding costs of living, finding available resources and a push for a water bill program comparable to LIHEAP fueled this fireside chat with a community-driven flame.
Although recent wins were also discussed during the fireside chat (the Brooklyn community center redevelopment project and R3 in ESTL), the questions submitted focused on other essential needs: clean water and air.
The Congresswoman recognized the environmental issues in Southern Illinois and urged that our priority needed to be demanding that the CDC recognize these concerns (speaking directly to the water issues in Granite City) for what they were: a public health crisis. She noted that this declaration would open up more resources for downstate.
With the midterm elections less than two weeks away, UCM is appreciative of the Congresswoman taking time to sit with us and thoughtfully answer our questions while committing to continuing to transform our communities.
To take the first step in your civic engagement journey, make sure you show up to the polls on November 3, 2026. Early voting is now available. Find your ballot at vote411.org.
Our next action is A Toxic Tour Talk with Illinois Deputy Gov. Bria Shudder and IEPA Director James Jennings on Thursday, November 5.
