State Rep. Katie Stuart

Today marks the first day of fall, a time of reflection, renewal, and new beginnings. As the season changes, we welcome the cooler days and the beauty of autumn.

Today, we recognize the International Day of Peace and reflect on the importance of building communities rooted in understanding, compassion, and respect. May we continue working together to promote peace, strengthen our communities, and create a more just and equitable world.

It was an honor to speak at the 89th Annual State Convention for the Illinois State Conference NAACP and connect with people from across Illinois who are committed to strengthening their communities and continuing the work toward an equitable future.

I know that I have had opportunities and support throughout my life that not everyone has been afforded. That is a privilege I do not take for granted. It is also something that has affected the way I serve the public. You cannot fully understand the challenges people face without being willing to listen to experiences that are different from your own.

Thank you to the Illinois State Conference NAACP for inviting me to be part of this year’s convention. I'm grateful for the opportunity to listen, have meaningful conversations, and spend time with people doing important work throughout our state.

I had a wonderful visit to CAVC and loved seeing the opportunities this facility is creating for students in our community.

One of the highlights of the tour was meeting some of the students who are already using parts of the facility and gaining hands-on experience through CAVC’s programs. It was great to hear what they are learning and to see their excitement about the skills and career paths they are beginning to explore.

Programs like CAVC can make a real difference for students by giving them the chance to learn through experience and to gain a clearer sense of where they want to go after graduation. I'm proud to have helped secure funding for this project, and it was especially rewarding to see students already benefiting from that investment.

Thank you to Superintendent Dr. Brad Skertich and CAVC Director Joe McGinnis for taking the time to show me around and share more about the work being done at CAVC. I look forward to seeing the building when it's complete!

Constitution Day and Citizenship Day both recognize the founding principles that shaped our democracy and the responsibilities of citizenship. Let’s continue to uphold our fundamental values —liberty, equality, and civic participation—principles that continue to guide our nation.

Yesterday evening, I was pleased to attend the grand opening and ribbon-cutting for Riverbend Head Start and Family Services in Granite City.

It was exciting to celebrate the revitalization of a historic building and the new opportunities it will create for children and families in our community. Investing in our children and supporting families is an investment in the future of Granite City and the region as a whole.

Congratulations to Riverbend Head Start and Family Services on this exciting new chapter, and thank you to everyone who helped make this project possible!

Mexican Independence Day commemorates Mexico’s declaration of independence from Spain in 1810. Today, we celebrate this historic moment and honor the rich culture, traditions, and contributions of the Mexican American community. May this day be a celebration of heritage, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Mexican people. ¡Viva México!

NEW UPDATE 3:30PM 9/18/26: This work has been canceled until further notice.

Madison County travelers: Beginning Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 6 a.m., the two right lanes on northbound and southbound I-255 between mile markers 24 and 26 in Collinsville will be closed for bridge deck patching on the bridges over Horseshoe Lake Road and the ramps for eastbound and westbound I-55/70.

All southbound lanes are expected to reopen by 6 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, and all northbound lanes are expected to reopen by 6 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 24. Expect delays and plan ahead!

Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate and uplift the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of our Hispanic community. Today and every day, we honor the generations who have strengthened our state and continue building a brighter future for all. ¡Feliz Mes de la Herencia Hispana!