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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE LIFE OF JOYCE CHAPMAN
WHEREAS, Joyce Chapman was born in Japan to a Japanese mother and an African American father. While stationed in Japan, her father, an Army service member, first met her mother. Early in life, Joyce lived the life of a typical “Army brat,” moving across the globe; and
WHEREAS, when Joyce was twelve years old, her parents relocated to Chicago’s Pullman area in June 1968. Joyce had never resided in an entirely black neighborhood. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis on April 4th just ten months later, leaving a lasting personal impact in Joyce; and
WHEREAS, Joyce recognized herself in both her neighbors and Martin Luther King, Jr. Her neighbors, who in 1925 established The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, served as an inspiration for the late 1960s civil rights struggle; and
WHEREAS, Joyce started a profession in social services after graduating from college, where she fought for young people involved in the criminal justice system; she became her community’s voice and leader. She concentrated on figuring out how to make resources available to those who needed them; and
WHEREAS, Joyce held various positions up until her death, including those of president of the Pullman Community Development Corporation, which she founded; vice president of Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, president of the 5th District Policing Advisory Council, chairwoman of the Far South Community Action Council for Chicago Public Schools, member of the Chicago Police Superintendent Advisory Panel, and most recently president of the Gately Park Advisory Council; and
WHEREAS, Joyce Chapman was more than just an activist; she was a beacon of hope, an unyielding force for positive change, and an inspiration to all who crossed paths with her. Her dedication to social justice, community empowerment, and equality was a motivating factor in her life, and it shone through in all she did. Her legacy will stand as a beacon for those who carry on the flame of activism, reminding us of all that one person’s motivation may spark, changing and inspiring a community to strive for a better future.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and members of the Board of Commissioners do hereby join the residents of Cook County in mourning the passing of a great luminary, advocate, and activist of the neighborhoods, recognizing her unwavering dedication to community service, social justice, community empowerment and equality, and offer our most heartfelt and deepest condolences to the family of Joyce Chapman in their time of sorrow; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and a suitable copy of same be tendered to the family of Joyce Chapman so that her memory may be so honored and ever cherished
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