Dear Neighbors,
As we prepare for Thanksgiving, I’m reminded of what makes our community so special: our commitment to looking out for one another. Whether it’s ensuring every family has access to safety, dignity, and opportunity, supporting our schools, or welcoming new neighbors, our shared values guide the work I do every day in Springfield.
This fall has brought both challenges and moments of real progress. We’ve advanced legislation to strengthen protections for immigrants, improve our transit system and protect our environment. None of this work happens in a vacuum. It happens because you raise your voices and stay engaged.
As we head into the holiday season, I’m grateful for the trust you place in me and for the resilience and compassion that define our community.
As always, my office is here to help. If you have questions or need support with state services, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 847-486-8810 or info@gonggershowitz.com.
Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz
Happy Thanksgiving!
Wishing you and your loved ones a happy Thanksgiving!
My office will be closed 11/26-11/28. Please call and leave a message at 847-486-8810 or email us at info@gonggershowitz.com and we will be in touch when we are back in the office.
Rep. Gong-Gershowitz Speaks at Cook County’s
Defenders for All Press Conference
Recently I was proud to stand with the Defenders for All coalition to announce the expansion of the Cook County Public Defender’s Immigration Unit, expanding access to due process for more immigrant families.
The Defenders for All legislation that I championed in Springfield with the support of these unwavering leaders ensures people in Cook County don’t lose their lawyer just because ICE transfers them out of state. It gives the Public Defender the flexibility to keep representing clients wherever they’re detained, because no one should lose their lawyer over a bus ride ordered by a federal agency.
Intergovernmental Blood Drive 12/11
My office is hosting an intergovernmental Blood Drive with Northfield Township, New Trier Township and the Wilmette Park District, on December 11th from Noon to 6PM at the Wilmette Park District Community Recreation Center, located at 3000 Glenview Rd, in Wilmette. To register click HERE.
Healthcare Insurance Clinic 12/13
My office is partnering with the Ismaili Center for a Health Insurance Clinic on Saturday, December 13th from 9AM – 2PM. Medicare, Medicaid, Affordable Care Act and Social Security Benefit representatives will be on-site. To register, scan the QR code below or click HERE.
Events In The District:
- Glenview Chamber of Commerce’s Holiday in the Park and Parade will take place on November 29th from 4pm – 6pm at Jackman Park. Follow the parade down Glenview Road from Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) Church going west to Jackman Park, 1011 Lehigh Avenue, Glenview. Festivities in the park include a visit with Santa, hay rides, a train ride for kids, carolers, cookies, hot chocolate and popcorn. For more information click HERE.
- Wilmette’s Holiday Happenings — A Day of Family Fun, Shopping & Dining will take place on December 6th. A full day of local shopping, dining, and holiday magic! Visit with Santa, enjoy a giant snow globe, curling in Ouilmette Way, live performances, and New Trier carolers. Enjoy a free showing of Elf at the Wilmette Theatre (with a $10 local receipt).The day begins with a Frozen Character Breakfast at Convito Café (9–10:45 AM, reservations required: 847-251-3653 or convitomanager@gmail.com) and concludes with caroling, cocoa, and the annual tree lighting at 5 PM on Village Green. Don’t miss the shopping and dining promotions all day! For the full schedule of events and more information clickHERE.
- Evanston’s Holiday Light Celebration will take place on December 6th, in Fountain Square from 4:30-7pm. Enjoy performances from local choirs, remarks from City leaders, and plenty of festive cheer from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The tree lighting will take place at 5pm, followed by more live music and free photos with Santa, along with complimentary treats.Attendees can also bring donations for the Mayor’s Holiday Toy, Food and Book Drive. For more information click HERE.
- Skokie’s 3rd Annual Holiday Cookie Walk will take place on December 13th from 1pm – 4pm, starting at FLX Move, located at 5111 Brown St, Skokie. Get ready for the sweetest event of the season! Explore local shops, cafés, and bakeries while collecting a festive cookie at every stop. With each ticket, you’ll receive a commemorative cookie box and a map of participating businesses—your passport to a delicious afternoon of holiday cheer.Every cookie is made in a licensed kitchen by our talented local bakers, each one wrapped and ready to enjoy or share. As you stroll through downtown, you’ll discover new places, meet friendly faces, and experience the warmth and creativity that make Skokie special.Tickets are limited, and the event sells out quickly each year—reserve yours early to guarantee your spot! Proceeds support the Skokie Community Foundation, which funds vital programs in healthcare, social services, education, and the arts. For more information or to purchase tickets click HERE.
- Chabad of Wilmette’s Annual Menorah Lighting, will take place on Sunday, December 14, 5:30 p.m. Enjoy festive music by the Wilmette Junior High Choir, remarks from village dignitaries and community partners, hot cocoa, a 12-foot menorah lighting, songs, and even a visit from a stilt walker! For more information clickHERE.
- Skokie’s Hanukkah Fun and Latkes, will take place December 21, 2025 from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM. Join us for a fun and festive Hanukkah celebration! Take part in a friendly dreidel competition, build your own menorah, and enjoy a light kosher meal featuring delicious latkes. The afternoon will also include additional crafts and interactive activities for kids and families. All adults and children must register for this event. Drop-ins welcome. RegisterHERE