Upswell Chicago: Day 3
// By Christian Clansky
On the final day of a massive event, you might imagine that folks are a little drained. But as we all know, changemakers are nothing if not resilient. True to form, the Upswell community brought with them a final, powerful surge of energy and passion to cap off three days of incredible impact in Chicago.
On the Main Stage, and with poetic historical context, Eboo Patel explored the immeasurable value of interfaith collaboration in American civil society. A surprise address from Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot framed a vision for a more inclusive, equitable, and safe future for the city’s communities. Michael McAfee and Eddie Bocanegra extolled the virtues of better opportunities and second chances against the backdrop of violence in the Windy City. And Tonika Johnson and Roy Kinsey brought Upswell to a thunderous conclusion – received by a standing ovation from a packed room – with a raw performance chronicling Chicago’s legacy of race and place.