Illinois Public Media News

“What’s In Your Square?” the city of Urbana’s search for ways to revitalize Lincoln Square is moving to a new level, with a series of public meetings.

President Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday to end his controversial policy that has resulted in thousands of family separations and brought criticism from Democrats and Republicans.

On the 21st: A street artist leaves art for the public -- in the form of filling potholes. Plus, How Chicago plans to clear up rail congestion this fall with federal aid. And, we discussed Artificial Intelligence and its future with Microsoft's Eric Horvitz.

People across the nation plan to take to the streets June 30th to protest recent immigration policies that separate families crossing the southwest border of the United States. That includes marches in at least five Illinois cities.

A team of Chicago Tribune reporters looked into cases of sexual misconduct in the city's public schools spanning a decade. Their series 'Betrayed' tells the stories of students abused by educators or other school employees. We talked to David Jackson — one of the reporters involved — about what they uncovered. 

After a Chicago Tribune investigation uncovered years of sexual abuse in the city’s public schools, Illinois lawmakers are calling on school officials for answers. A hearing is scheduled Wednesday morning in Chicago.

State Senator Chapin Rose says he believes Governor Bruce Rauner will sign his bill placing more requirements on the Manlove underground gas storage field in Champaign County.

On the 21st: We discussed the case of Eddie Russell Jr., a 25-year old black man who was shot and killed by Peoria police last September—and why his family is now suing the city and the six officers involved in the shooting.  And, how some Illinois community colleges are helping veterans to get their degrees and reintegrate into society. Plus, what county jails are doing in effort to connect inmates with proper mental health care in an effort to keep them from coming back.

Experts blame the long-standing problem on discrimination, especially the "inadequate, inequitable'' education funding system.

Illinois is losing residents, according to recent census estimates, and common explanations include high taxes, unfriendly business policies or the state’s growing pension debt.