University of Illinois Poverty and Policy Summit (1)

The University of Illinois Poverty and Policy Summit 2021 is hosted by the University of Illinois Institute of Government and Public Affairs and the Center for Social and Behavioral Science.  The first part of the Summit features introductions by hosts Brent Roberts and Robin Fretwell Wilson, as well as by Tim Killeen and Juliana Stratton. The event continues forward with panelist presentations and concludes with a lively Q&A. 

Introduction

[0:00] Introduction to the Summit by Brent Roberts (UIUC Psychology and Director, CSBS) and Robin Fretwell Wilson (UIUC Law and Director, IGPA)

[6:54] Tim Killeen (President of the University of Illinois System) speaks on the University of Illinois commitment to serving the needs of the larger community, and the role of IGPA and CSBS in tackling current poverty- and policy-related challenges. 

[11:19] Juliana Stratton (Lieutenant Governor of Illinois) introduces the circumstances faced by those living in Poverty and the importance of funneling valuable resources in underserved communities.  

Foundational Presentations

[19:35] Economy and Poverty Programs
David Merriman (UIC Urban Planning and Public Affairs) presents on the relationship between poverty and COVID-19.

[28:28] COVID-19 and Vulnerable Populations
Sage Kim (UIC School of Public Health) talks about how disasters like COVID-19 disproportionately affect racial and ethnic minorities living in highly-segregated, low-income areas. 

[38:45] Access to Justice
Jason Mazzone (UIUC College of Law) discusses how court rules and procedures have adjusted during the pandemic and the advantages and disadvantages of virtual hearings. Sally Kolb (Land of Lincoln Legal Aid and UIUC College of Law) investigates how courts in Central Illinois pivoted due to the health crisis, and how these changes had an obstructive impact on those seeking justice–especially in matters of family law. 

[50:20] Citizen Scientists Documenting the Impact of COVID-19 and Offering Solutions 
Ruby Mendenhall (UIUC Sociology) provides an overview of the Citizen Scientist Journaling Project, which documents the experiences of Illinoisans during the pandemic.

[1:03:00] Q&A moderated by Brent Roberts