2025 Lobby Day: A Celebration of Collective Power and New Voices

Each year, the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce (ILBCC) organizes a powerful Lobby Day, bringing business owners, community leaders, and now—more than ever—young entrepreneurs to Springfield to advocate for Black business interests. This year’s Lobby Day was a true milestone, filled with energy, new faces, impactful meetings, and a renewed sense of unity.

Showing Up in Droves

Lobby Day is not just a one-time event—it’s a tradition. Although members can lobby year-round, this annual collective trip stands as a show of force. Thanks to meticulous planning, the ILBCC coordinated meetings with key agencies and state leaders, addressing critical concerns like construction contract disparities, procurement opportunities, and Black business development.

Participants were well-prepared with talking points, clear agendas, and even ILBCC pins on their lapels, allowing agencies to immediately recognize the collective power standing before them.

Youth Take Center Stage

A standout highlight this year was the presence of young entrepreneurs and advocates, led by “Community Corey” Douly Johnson. Sponsored by the Chamber and inspired through events like Terry Simmons’ Business Summit, Corey brought a vibrant group of high school and college students—many already business owners—to Springfield.

Their companies ranged from fashion and streetwear to financial literacy consulting. Corey emphasized how important it was for these young adults to experience civic engagement firsthand: “We’re usually taught how to apply for a job, but not how to apply for an RFP,” he noted.

This new wave of involvement left a powerful impression on both the students and the veteran business owners, highlighting the importance of mentorship, knowledge transfer, and intergenerational collaboration.

Power of Preparation and Focus

Veteran lobbyist Cassandra Matz emphasized that preparation is key. “All politics is local,” she said. Knowing your mayor, trustees, and state legislators makes a difference when you walk into Springfield.

This year’s success was largely attributed to staying on point with the agenda and clear talking points. Members advocated for tangible changes like unbundling large contracts so smaller Black-owned businesses could serve as prime contractors instead of always being subs. This strategy, explained in meetings with agency directors, could grow Black businesses sustainably by leveling the playing field.

One important lesson for all members: when we arrive educated, organized, and with numbers, the impact is undeniable.

Building Relationships, Not Just Business

Both Corey and Cassandra agreed that relationship-building is crucial. Lobby Day isn’t just about legislation; it’s about meeting the people who make decisions, understanding the process, and showing up consistently.

By participating in Lobby Day, young and veteran entrepreneurs alike realized that advocacy and business success go hand in hand. When Black businesses are visible, organized, and knowledgeable, they can’t be ignored.

Big Thank You To Our Sponsors

Lobby Day was sponsored by several major partners: Wind Creek Casino Southland, Ameren Illinois, Comed, Aetna, Constellation, Illinois Bankers Association, SimpCo.

Business cards were exchanged, partnerships were formed, and laughter and stories were shared over a well-thought-out meal (complete with vegetarian options!).

The day ended with a networking dinner as LaDonna Raeh, co-host of The Wake Up Show Chicago, noted: “We utilized the Wake Up Show to get our voices heard—not just in Illinois, but across America and the world.”

The night closed with remarks from ILBCC President Larry Ivory and other leaders, celebrating the victories of the day and inspiring everyone to keep pushing forward.

Lobby Day 2025 was more than a trip to Springfield—it was a bold reminder that Black businesses are organized, rising, and ready to lead. The collective voice is powerful, but when seasoned advocates and young entrepreneurs join forces, it becomes unstoppable.

If you’re ready to be part of the movement, visit ilbcc.org and join the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce today.