In the annals of Illinois' rich history, there remains an unsettling truth that demands our attention. Although Illinois joined the Union in 1818 as a Free State, its earliest constitutions permitted limited slavery and indentured servitude, conditions that felt incongruent with its free state status. The adoption of the 1970 Constitution marked a significant moment for Illinois, as it removed the "punishment clause" found in the Federal 13th Amendment. However, this important step forward lacked a crucial element: an explicit prohibition of slavery or indentured servitude. As it stands, the Illinois Constitution is silent on this issue, leaving Federal law—allowing involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime—as the default governing standard.

This historical oversight has profound and persisting implications. The silence of Illinois' Constitution sends a troubling message about the state’s stance on human rights and dignity. While we recognize the importance of federal legislation, it is imperative that Illinois asserts its own, more emphatic declaration against all forms of slavery. The cohort 4 of the Lewis University Prison Education Program (P.E.P.) calls for the rectification of this omission by amending the Illinois Constitution to explicitly prohibit slavery and involuntary servitude, under all circumstances.

Our goal is to ensure that our state constitution reflects our values of freedom and equality. The absence of this explicit prohibition not only leaves room for legal ambiguity but continues to cast a shadow over Illinois' legacy. By advocating for this amendment, we aim to solidify our commitment to human rights and set an undeniable standard for other states to follow.

Statistics reveal the dire consequences of not addressing this issue at the state level, leading to variations in enforcement and interpretation. Ending all forms of involuntary servitude in Illinois will demand this clear constitutional language so that every resident knows that their rights are unequivocally protected, reflecting the very essence of freedom on which our nation was built.

Now is the time to act and rectify this historical omission once and for all. Therefore, we urge the Illinois General Assembly to propose and pass a constitutional amendment that explicitly prohibits slavery and involuntary servitude within our state. Let us elevate Illinois to a beacon of freedom and justice by taking this decisive step.

Sign this petition to lend your voice in advocating for a more just and equitable Illinois. Together, we can make history by ensuring our constitution mirrors our shared values of liberty and equality for all. Elron Cathey , eearius johnson ,  aleerpo savala ,  Ryan O’Neal  # end it or say it