The political giant and stalwart U.S. Rep. Danny Davis announced that he will not be seeking reelection. After 30 years serving in Congress and winning 15 terms, Davis will no longer be serving one of the largest and most diverse districts in the state of Illinois, representing more than 700,000 constituents.
With the topic of gerrymandering being front and center in our politics, the consistency that Davis has shown is more than noteworthy. He understands the importance of embracing different ideas, opinions and viewpoints. That includes the importance of diversity. Unfortunately for some, in this toxic and polarizing political climate, that seems to be frowned upon. Thankfully, he found a way for over three decades to find common ground among his constituents and push legislation that helped thousands. The 7th Congressional District has a demographic makeup of 41.3% African American, 30.5% white, 16.4% Latino and 8.5% Asian, according to Data USA.
When race and socioeconomic class are interjected into a conversation, for some, a general air of malaise emerges, a feeling of uneasiness, to where many choose to stay quiet or simply not engage.
The problem with this approach is that if we don’t have constructive dialogue, it’s hard to move forward in a positive direction to where agreements are reached. More importantly, our democracy can’t thrive without it. Davis understands that. He never shies away from having those conversations, and he either worked on or authored legislation that helped people from all walks of life.
His work on clean energy legislation and environmental justice amassed historic climate investments, which led to the creation of thousands of jobs. His outspoken advocacy for expanding access to affordable health care for seniors and affordable housing is more than noteworthy. Davis is a former educator, and his unwavering support for our youths speaks to his understanding that the quality of life we expect to have in our great nation depends on the investments we make in our youths today. He helped permanently expand guaranteed billions in child care funding to states; led efforts to increase educational stability for homeless and foster youths, including reducing bullying and harassment in schools; and worked to ensure that educational opportunities for students with disabilities are protected.
These legislative victories did not help just one group of people. They improved the lives of the young, our senior citizens, women, men, Black people, white people, Hispanics and Asians, among others. As we celebrate the tenure and lament the retirement of Davis, I am reminded of another civil rights giant, the Rev. Willie T. Barrow. She said, “We are not so divided as we are disconnected. If we connect as a people, the world would be a better place.”
Fortunately, Davis began his legislative career during an era in which disagreeing with “the other side” did not mean you were viewed as less American or less patriotic. Differences were respected and listened to; differences were met with appropriate and respectable commentary. Perhaps that is why he has always been viewed as a role model, a gentleman and a relentless but authentic opponent, who truly cares about the people. Just as importantly, how he lives his life and conducts himself in such an admirable way add to his success.
In their infinite wisdom, the Founding Fathers designed it so that the House of Representatives would be the part of the legislative branch that is the most responsive to the needs of the people. Because members of Congress are elected every two years, it’s essential that they listen clearly to the needs of their constituents. Davis understands that. He is often seen at local events, community gatherings, town hall meetings and school-related functions, listening to the needs of the various communities he services.
Last year, Davis won over 80% of the votes to win his 15th and final term. That kind of support for someone occupying a congressional seat for so many years speaks to his success and his ability to connect with his constituents. For those living in Englewood, the Loop, the Near North Side and the suburbs of Oak Park, Bellwood, River Forest, Forest Park and Maywood, to name a few, Davis delivered.
Davis understands that our country works best when all the citizens can enjoy the good that America has to offer. That begins with making certain that opportunities are available and investments in human capital are made.
Thank you, Danny Davis. You help bring out the best in America. You are a hero.
Jerald McNair is a school administrator in South Holland School District 151. McNair has a doctorate degree in education and a graduate degree in public policy.