COPA had a great time engaging the residents of Chicago in the community during the week of 01.12.26. This week our Public Affairs team was in Humboldt Park and Near West Side communities.
Our office is committed to helping residents understand how to file a complaint or compliment an officer and explain to the public our role in police oversight. Below is a brief description of our most recent community engagement efforts. If you are interested in COPA speaking to your community group or organization, please submit a request via email to COPA-PublicAffairs@chicagocopa.org
Leaders Network Community Monthly Meeting – January 13, 2026
COPA attended the Leaders Network Community Monthly Meeting held in the Austin community that was comprised of faith and community leaders that work together to organize, strategize, and mobilize to improve the quality of life for the west side communities. This meeting included honoring local community leaders who are continuing the work or the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King. COPA attends these meetings to give out information on how to file complaints or compliments towards CPD.

Alderwoman Stephanie D. Coleman Know Your Rights Forum – January 15, 2026
COPA had a great time attending Alderwoman Stephanie D. Coleman’s Know Your Rights Forum at Lindblom Math and Science Academy. The forum hosted a series of Know Your Rights workshops for the community that included a resource fair component. COPA was able to set up a resource table and give out information on our role in police accountability.

40th Annual Interfaith Breakfast: Defending Our Democracy, Protecting Our Rights – January 16, 2026
COPA Interim Chief Administrator LaKenya White had a great time attending the 40th Annual Interfaith Breakfast: Defending Our Democracy, Protecting Our Rights in the Loop. The event brought together community organizations, city leaders, and included remarks from Mayor Brandon Johnson & former Vice President Kamala Harris. Mayor Johnson also honored former Vice President Harris & various local community leaders for their continuous work and impact that continue Dr. King’s legacy.

Mercy Works Chicago Monthly Community Food Pantry – January 17, 2026
COPA had a great time attending the Mercy Works Chicago Monthly Community Food Pantry in the Belmont Cragin community. The volunteer pantry that takes place at Ss. Genevieve and Stanislaus Bishop & Martyr Parish where community members obtain food and can learn about a variety of community resources.
