The Chicago Bears belong in Illinois—and we can’t afford to let them walk away.

For generations, this team has been woven into the fabric of Chicago and the surrounding communities. From family traditions on Sundays to small businesses built around game days, the Bears aren’t just a private company here. They’re a cultural institution and a major economic driver. Losing them to another state would be a blow that Illinois would feel for decades.

Right now, the Bears are openly exploring a move to Northwest Indiana, citing a lack of urgency and legislative partnership in Springfield. Team leadership has been clear: without reasonable property tax certainty and basic infrastructure commitments, a new stadium project in Illinois cannot move forward. Meanwhile, Indiana has passed legislation specifically designed to attract a professional sports franchise and is publicly courting the team.

No one is asking Illinois taxpayers to fully bankroll a billionaire-owned franchise. But refusing to engage at all risks something far more costly: the permanent loss of one of the state’s most iconic teams. Other major developments across Illinois receive tailored legislative tools to get projects done. 

We are calling on Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois General Assembly to act now by advancing the Megaproject and PILOT legislation needed to keep the Bears in Illinois—while ensuring fair protections for taxpayers. This is about partnership, not giveaways, and about keeping economic activity, jobs, and civic pride where they belong.

Once the Bears leave, there is no rewind button. Illinois will lose revenue, influence, and a piece of its identity. Fans have shown loyalty through losing seasons, ownership changes, and decades of uncertainty. Now it’s time for state leadership to show the same commitment.

Sign this petition to tell Illinois leaders: keep the Chicago Bears in Illinois, and get this done before it’s too late.

Photo: Michael Reaves/Getty Images