CIOGC participated in the City of Chicago’s 31st Annual Interfaith Breakfast in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on January 13 at the Hilton Chicago. The breakfast, hosted by Mayor Emanuel, was attended by local religious and civic leaders including Senator Richard Durbin and Cook County Board President Tony Preckwinkle. The event served to celebrate Dr. King’s life, his mission of economic empowerment, and passion for human rights while also addressing issues affecting the city. Regarding the issues of police brutality and homelessness, protesters interrupted the event to demand action by the Mayor. The late Henry English who founded the Black United Fund of Illinois, was honored with the Champion of Freedom Award, for a life of service devoted to racial equality. Rami Nashashibi, founder and Executive Director of the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN), a CIOGC member organization, was also recognized with an award for his leadership on continuing the legacy and work of Dr. King in Chicago.