Raheem intends to ensure that Chicago invests in continuing to develop sustainably. Our city should be the most affordable and appealing city for people of all ages and economic backgrounds, and will continue to be a beacon for development through the continued urbanization of the twenty-first century.

Raheem Uqdah is a social impact and community organizing professional living in the South Loop with his two kids. For decades, Raheem has worked in volunteerism, community service, and corporate responsibility, gaining firsthand experience driving meaningful community impact. After working along the periphery for years, Raheem is completing his Master’s in Public Administration at UIC with a focus on local governance and urban environmental policy. Organizing within the Chicago chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America, Raheem intends to demonstrate the effectiveness of socialist policies at the city level.

Raheem at UIC GEO Strike

Campaigning for a sustainable vision of Chicago’s future.

Sustainable Development

Ensuring that we are developing a resilient Chicago, from infrastructure to business development that brings a wide variety of amenities to all of Chicago’s vibrant communities.

  • Encouraging greater housing density throughout the third ward to increase access and help to lower the cost of buying and renting for all Chicagoans.
  • Expanding public transit throughout the ward, inviting the city to discover the near south side, and increasing access for residents without the need for a car.
  • Investing in greener solutions that reduce flooding, cool down our neighborhoods, and replace our aging infrastructure.
  • Increasing bike lanes and investing in walkability improvements to encourage neighbors and visitors to walk the ward and spend time in and between our business districts.

Neighborhood Livability & City Affordability

Implementing policies and promoting development that increase housing availability in the near south and across the city, and investing in public services that equitably improve quality of life for all of Chicago. 

  • Increasing youth opportunities during the summer months and after school to provide opportunities for youth development, job training, and safer neighborhoods
  • Increasing housing availability and lowering rental costs to make the near south side more accessible to first-time buyers, families, and older adults. 
  • Expanding childcare options for residents, building supports around families with young children, and transitioning students into early learning and neighborhood education.
  • Increasing resources for the public schools and increasing neighborhood school access
  • Investing in the development of local business districts, bringing more locally owned businesses into our shopping corridors and transit hubs.  

Government Transparency & Efficiency

Balancing Chicago’s budget in a way that delivers on social programs that improve the lives of all of Chicago and the most vulnerable.

  • Implementation of participatory budgeting for the third ward and its improvements and investments. 
  • Increasing neighborhood townhalls and opportunities for citizen feedback for important ward development decisions.
  • Addressing the reality of our city budget, cutting away unverifiable spending, investing in social programs that work, and funding systematic change for our greatest challenges. 
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