Report Urges Jobs, Education to Curb Chicago Crime

Tens of thousands of young adults in Chicago lack high school diplomas, marketable job skills, and clear career pathways, according to a newly released policy statement that argues those gaps are directly tied to public safety challenges. The document contends that limited opportunity — particularly for young people and older individuals with nonviolent criminal records — contributes to persistent crime and instability across the city.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chicago homicides increased by more than 50 percent, outpacing national trends. Although violent crime has declined from its pandemic peak, the report states that current levels remain comparable to those seen during the final years of Mayor Richard M. Daley’s administration.

“Contrary to Mayor Brandon Johnson’s rote claims that murders and shootings are at their lowest levels since the 1960s, both per capita and in absolute numbers, they are closer to the levels seen during Daley’s final decade in office,” the statement reads.

The release cites estimates placing Chicago’s gang population between 100,000 and 117,000 members across roughly 70 to 75 gangs. Federal agencies have described the city as having one of the largest gang populations in the country.

While acknowledging the role of policing, the report argues that law enforcement alone cannot resolve underlying issues. Instead, it outlines a series of education- and employment-focused reforms.

Among the recommendations are expanded paid work-study programs for high school students, aimed at keeping teenagers connected to school while offering income and mentorship. Programs such as Cristo Rey Jesuit High School’s Corporate Work Study Program are cited as examples of combining classroom education with professional experience.

The document also calls for greater access to education and job training for unemployed young adults and individuals involved in the justice system. A study from the University of Illinois at Chicago’s Great Cities Institute found that approximately 90,000 Chicago residents ages 16 to 19 are not working.

Alternative high schools, including Youth Connection Charter School (YCCS), have helped former dropouts complete diplomas, the release notes, though efforts to expand such models have faced opposition from some organizations, including teachers’ unions.

For first-time, nonviolent offenders, the report advocates diversion programs in place of incarceration. “Judges should have similar authority to divert non-violent, first-time offenders into education and job training programs rather than handing them a prison sentence.”

Reentry barriers for formerly incarcerated residents are also highlighted. The document recommends revisiting municipal hiring restrictions and broadening entrepreneurial training opportunities through initiatives such as Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives’ Certified Entrepreneurial Training program.

The release concludes by arguing that funding is not the primary obstacle to reform but rather political coordination and priorities. “There are no insurmountable financial obstacles to providing the education and occupational training programs and support services needed…It simply requires resetting priorities…These are actions long overdue.”

The proposal frames education, workforce development, and reentry support as long-term strategies aimed at addressing root causes of crime while strengthening economic stability across Chicago communities.