Black Bench Chicago

09/10/2025

✨ Introducing the 3rd Cohort of Black Bench Chicago! ✨
We are honored to welcome a new class of emerging Chicago leaders!

This cohort represents dedication, vision, and the next wave of changemakers shaping Chicago’s future. We can’t wait to see the growth, collaboration, and legacy they’ll create.

📣 Join us in celebrating the journey ahead — the bench just got stronger!

07/24/2025

Interested in going the 3rd Cohort of Black Bench? Have questions about the program or application? Join our virtual informational session Wednesday July 30th at 6pm! Click the registration link below to join!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbP5ZlL09KY6JCPCC8mc9B5eRMFXkGXe5u09C92yIauzEVxQ/viewform?usp=header

07/16/2025

Interested in being apart of the 3rd Cohort of Black Bench Chicago and want to learn more? Tune in to some upcoming radio and podcast interviews lead by Black Bench Co-founders, political strategist Alex Sims-Jones and Alderman Ronnie Mosley and program directors Chris Percy and Crystal Bland as they discuss all things Black Bench!

07/15/2025

📣 The wait is over — Black Bench Chicago applications are now open!

We’re looking for the next wave of bold, brilliant Black leaders ready to build power and create lasting impact in their communities. If you've been looking for a sign, this is it.

🌟 Apply now to join our 3rd cohort: https://bit.ly/blackbenchapp
🗓️ Applications close August 10th — don’t wait!

07/14/2025

Here’s what Black Bench alumni have to say…
From gaining the confidence to lead, to building lifelong connections—this program has been a catalyst for growth, power, and purpose.

We’re just 1 day away!
Applications for our next cohort open tomorrow.

07/11/2025

Hey Chicago 👋 We are only 4 days away from our application launch for the 3rd Cohort of Black Bench Chicago!! To learn more about the program, visit www.blackbenchchicago.org Stay tuned for some of our graduates to share their Black Bench experiences!

08/21/2023

Congratulations Black Bench Chicago's 2nd cohort! Over the next six months these 30 fellows will have the opportunity to learn, grow, and explore their future impact on the Black community in the city of Chicago. Let's get started 🙌🏾

08/21/2023

“There’s a gap between generations and passing knowledge,” said Alexandra Sims-Jones, Black Bench Chicago co-founder. The organization connects older generations with those younger to share lessons in civic engagement and organizing.

06/20/2023

To young Black leaders in the political, government, business, nonprofit or other spaces: Black Bench Chicago is opening applications for its second fellowship program! brings together the new generation of Black leaders to build community, develop leadership skills, and bridge past and future leadership. Apply here for the program: blackbenchchicago.com

The program's old-guard Black leaders want to ensure they pass on the knowledge they have acquired to the new generation of Black leaders.

06/20/2023

I couldn’t be more excited to announce that Black Bench Chicago Applications are now open for cohort 2!
Happy Juneteenth ✊🏾!

The Black bench Chicago community has become so special! From our amazing inaugural cohort - to our powerhouse Advisory board they define community. I can’t wait to see who will make-up cohort 2. Apply at Blackbenchchicago.org
Applications close July 16th