As we come to the close of 2025, the Faith Coalition for the Common Good is deeply thankful for the opportunity to share in the work alongside a community of resilient, courageous and powerful leaders. This work is not done in isolation, it is built through relationship, trust and collective commitment to justice.
The evolution of the Faith Coalition is ongoing. We remain grounded in our commitment to ensure that those most impacted are not only present at decision-making tables, but are instrumental in shaping the hard conversations necessary to bring about holistic, communal change. This year, we are especially grateful for the strengthened relationships with our member organizations, sustainers, funders, decision-makers and the broader community. We also celebrate new relationships formed through intentional one-to-one organizing, including with neighboring communities such as Decatur.
Together, we reflect on meaningful victories: eliminating school ticketing, advancing the Pretrial Success Act and the FAIR Act, supporting work around the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, deepening partnerships and pushing forward local criminal justice reform. We also acknowledge the challenges we have faced. Yet we know that the trials on the path toward justice produce patience and perseverance and if we do not grow weary, we will reap a stronger, more just community.
Faith Coalition remains steadfast in our commitment to racial and economic justice. At a time when people are being taken from their homes, access to healthcare and food is threatened, basic needs are questioned, and our shared values are violated, we are called to do more. We will continue to train and develop leaders and organizers while moving boldly and collectively into action.
Looking ahead to 2026, there will be opportunities to step into positions of power and leadership. We hope you will join Faith Coalition in taking that step. Even when fear is present, courage is right there alongside it.
In closing, I want to share a quote from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. that has stayed with me this year especially in moments when it feels as though our democracy is in flames:
“Our slogan must not be ‘Burn, baby, burn.’ It must be ‘Build, baby, build.’ ‘Organize, baby, organize.’ Yes, our slogan must be ‘Learn, baby, learn,’ so that we can earn, baby, earn.’”
Thank you for your shared commitment, your actions, and your belief in the work that lives in the hearts and minds of our community. I wish you a joyous holiday season and a happy new year.
With gratitude and power,
Tyshianna Bankhead
Executive director
Faith Coalition for the Common Good
Upcoming events: Good Trouble Task Force Listen Lead Share (Virtual event) – 6 p.m. Jan. 26.
Annual Spring Gala – 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 24 Erin’s Pavilion. Ticket information on website.
Tyshianna Bankhead (she/her/ella), is the executive director of the Faith Coalition. If you have any questions or want more information on how to get involved, email tyshianna@faithcoalition-il.org or visit https://faithcoalition-il.org/.
