Regarding U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush’s contention that Gery Chico supported TIFs because of potential personal gain and compromised his duty as president of the Chicago Public School Reform Board of Trustees (Metro, Oct. 7), we express our dismay at Congressman Rush’s divisive statements. His attempt to tar one of Chicago’s most upstanding Latino leaders with unfounded allegations of ethical corruption fouls cooperative attempts between African-American and Latino leaders.
As president of the reform board, Mr. Chico has tackled many of the challenges facing Chicago’s public schools in unprecedented ways. His willingness to make politically unpopular decisions when they benefit our children demonstrates his devotion to improving the quality of public education. Both Mr. Chico and schools chief Paul Vallas work successfully with both African-American and Latino leaders toward the common goals of improved academic performance and educational accountability. Mr. Chico’s actions are proof of his commitment to all children.
Rep. Rush’s assertion that Mr. Chico places personal gain ahead of the children’s best interests provokes a strong reaction in the Latino community. Mr. Chico is part of Chicago Latinos’ newfound popular and political voice. As representatives of different constituencies within the Latino community, we are compelled to protest against unwarranted attacks against our leaders. The African-American and Latino communities should be united toward our common goals, not divided by political deception. In his willingness to condemn a good leader unfairly, Congressman Rush is guilty of placing political ambitions ahead of these common interests.
