State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) received the Metropolitan Chicago Breast Cancer Task Force's "Legislator of the Year" award for her work to end breast cancer detection disparities.

"I'm honored to aid the fight against demographic and ethnic disparities among breast cancer survivors. Early detection can save lives if we educate women about breast density and its effect on diagnosing cancer," Hunter said.

Low public awareness, gender-based stigmas and hereditary breast density increase late detection. Dense breast tissue increases the difficulty of early detection. This disproportionately affects minorities who hereditarily are more likely to have dense breast tissue.

Kennedy-King College and its students recently received the Aspen Institute’s first-ever “Rising Star Award” for continued academic improvement. State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago, 3) applauded the Englewood community college.

“I am proud of the students, faculty and administrators of Kennedy-King College for remaining a staple in our community. The students’ progress proves that our future leaders are here in our backyard, in the heart of neighborhoods too often overlooked. I fully support the college’s efforts to uplift the 3rd legislative district,” Hunter said.

In response to growing statewide and national distrust in the criminal justice system, Senator Mattie Hunter’s (D-Chicago) Grand Jury Review Task Force plan passed the Illinois Senate Criminal Law Committee today.

“I’ve heard concerns across Illinois regarding our criminal justice system and grand jury process. Providing transparency is the only way to restore public trust in our courts,” said Hunter, Majority Caucus Whip.

SPRINGFIELD — Early this morning, activist, leader and local legend Reverend Willie T. Barrow, known as “Little Warrior” passed at the age of 90. State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) released the following statement in memory of the remarkable woman:

“Today, Chicago lost a visionary leader who fought for justice and equality. She led the fight, alongside Addie Wyatt and Nancy Jefferson, for women’s rights, standing up for equality and justice. And her unwavering courage and commitment to advancing the African-American community is unmatchable.