As I recuperate from foot surgery in Chicago, my time away from Walk Across America has allowed me to reflect more deeply. I’ve experienced so much—from bustling cities to quieter towns, marginalized neighborhoods to upscale markets. Along the way, I have met Americans from diverse backgrounds, all pushing forward with a sense of purpose, grounded in their work and faith.
Returning home to the South Side of Chicago, I was struck by a certain tranquility here. It saddened me to realize that, in many ways, nothing’s changed. The same issues loom large; people still grapple with problems they’ve faced year after year. My team has done much to reduce violence in our immediate area, yet high levels of crime persist just blocks away. A group of teenagers continues to wreak havoc downtown, undermining the efforts of many who are trying to build a better community.
This trend is unmistakable. During my Walk Across America, I witnessed people striving for more—some taking gradual steps, others making significant strides—driven by a belief in a fulfilling life and hope for eternal rewards.
The underlying crisis driving America’s chaos starts in our classrooms
Many on the South Side are indeed reaching for something better, but the dominating forces often seem to be pulling in the wrong direction.
The distance provided clarity I hadn’t had before. We are protective of the dysfunction that surrounds us.
The current flows toward dysfunction instead of potential, leaning on government dependency rather than fostering independence. It gravitates toward violence rather than nurturing two-parent households. The allure of quick gains through drug dealing overshadows the enduring strength derived from education. Anyone who dares to go against this trend is often met with harsh criticism.
Being away revealed aspects I hadn’t seen clearly before. We guard our dysfunction with fierce loyalty; it feels almost like an integral part of our identity. Without it, it’s as if we don’t know who we are.
From a rooftop in Chicago to a cross-country journey, here’s my fight for America’s soul
I’ve been working on establishing a Center for Innovative Leadership and Economic Opportunity on the South Side, which has drawn both support and a lot of criticism. It breaks my heart. I face backlash for wanting to help kids leave the streets for safe spaces to simply be kids. For introducing trades like construction and electrical work to help young people reshape their futures. I believe these kids deserve opportunities, not pity, yet I have been labeled as a black conservative—which feels more like an insult to some than a reflection of a man who wants better for his community.
This negativity leads us further away from the progress we desperately need.
I need to be candid about something most politicians wouldn’t dare say: Contrary to Mayor Brandon Johnson’s assertions, white supremacy isn’t the force governing these streets. I witnessed the KKK marching in Kenton, Tennessee, during my youth, yet I haven’t seen such displays in Chicago.
There aren’t hidden conspiracies seeking our downfall. If there’s any prevailing racism today, it stems from the damaging bias of low expectations, that insidious voice suggesting we are eternal victims reliant on government solutions instead of faith, family, and hard work. They propagate comforting lies that shift the responsibility away from us, suggesting that just one political move could change everything. Meanwhile, the next generation slips farther away.
Educational issues in Illinois are perpetuating the political debate.
Our main adversary is our refusal to confront the impacts of post-1960s liberalism on our lives.
Let me share another truth that resonated with me. During my Walk Across America, many people expressed that they believe everything possible has been done for black Americans: government initiatives, affirmative action, protests. They noted an ongoing struggle, seemingly without improvement. I didn’t feel anger towards them; I felt sorrow. They aren’t entirely wrong. The troubling question is not whether America has failed us, but if we’ve let ourselves down by choosing the comfort of dissatisfaction over the hard work required for true freedom.
Illinois educators are using kids as political tools in their fight against Trump.
We’ve squandered opportunities by prioritizing dysfunction over progress, valuing victimhood more than achievement. It’s a peculiar state, given that none of us have experienced slavery or lived under legalized segregation. Yet, instead of forging ahead to a future where we define our own narratives, we search the past for our identity.
If we genuinely want to align with the rest of America and make progress, we must eradicate every available excuse. We need to dismantle the idea that systemic racism is a blanket explanation for our challenges. We must reject the belief that past oppression confines our potential today. These narratives don’t float us; they weigh us down.
As someone committed to this mission, I’ve walked across the country on painful feet for the youth of the South Side. I’ve endured discomfort, slept in unfamiliar places, and pressed on even when I wanted to give up. This wasn’t out of hopelessness but rather a strong belief that hope is alive.
For more insights on this topic, explore further.
Still, I remain optimistic. I’m deeply committed and firmly believe that there’s a divine plan for us. A plan to uplift us, not to harm us, one that promises a future. This promise isn’t limited to those who are well-off—it extends to the South Side as well.
If enough of us start swimming against the prevailing current, there’s always hope for change. I feel compelled to try.
Explore more about Pastor Corey Brooks’ journey.
