Inclusive Manufacturing Ecosystem

Re-build our Communities:  Support House Resolution 5124 and Chicago City Council Resolution Inclusion & Industry 4.0:

Chicago was devastated by the loss of manufacturing jobs starting in the late 1970s. These losses gave rise to high rates of poverty, violence, and unemployment, particularly on Chicago’s West and South sides. Many began to think that manufacturing was dead.   

We now know that manufacturing is far from dead.  These losses were a product of pressure from Wall Street, the failure of government to actively assist companies, and the failure of our educational system in providing the talent companies needed to compete in the global economy. 

Manufacturing is the essential foundation for rebuilding a broad-based middle class.   Why? 

• Manufacturing jobs now pay on average $85,000 a year and include benefits;
• Each manufacturing job generates 6 other jobs in the economy where as service sector jobs generate 1 other job, and retail jobs generate ¼ of a job; and

• Manufacturing creates a tax base that can support our educational system and social programs that are needed for a sustainable society.

To rebuild manufacturing requires that it become profoundly inclusive.  Did you know that 99% of manufacturing companies are owned by whites?  It was obvious in the past that men and women of color faced huge obstacles in getting into the highly skilled positions including product development, engineering, management, and ownership.  We need to be sure that we re-build our manufacturing sector in a way that’s profoundly inclusive, ensuring that manufacturing will be a tide that lifts all boats and will lead to a stable and secure society.  

A national coalition of manufacturers, community-based organizations, the faith community, labor, educators, and government—inspired by the experience of the Chicagoland Manufacturing Renaissance Council (CMRC)—has formed. We are eager for you to join us in rebuilding our manufacturing sector in ways that are profoundly inclusive and profoundly competitive.  For more information:  www.mrcampaign.net    

Join us!  Please sign on here to let City leaders know you want Chicago to embrace this approach to inclusive development.