A coalition of Chicagoland clergy and community leaders is calling on the Chicago City Council to reject a proposed ordinance that threatens to shut down Island Furs, a Black-owned business that has served the South Side for more than three decades.
The Chicago City Council is scheduled to vote on the proposed ordinance banning the sale of new fur products on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. In response, religious leaders and activists plan to hold a press conference before the meeting, urging aldermen to take immediate action to protect Island Furs and similar businesses that play a vital role in their communities.
“Alderman [Raymond] Lopez is simply wrong to not even engage with the Black community on this issue,” said Bishop Larry D. Trotter. “He is well aware of the reputation Island Furs has with the Black community. We won’t stand idle and allow this form of insensitivity to just reign over our community.”
The proposed ordinance, introduced by Lopez, could lead to the closure of Island Furs and other small businesses. Opponents argue that such measures disproportionately harm Black-owned enterprises that provide jobs and economic stability in neighborhoods already impacted by disinvestment and retail store closures.
“Now is the time for our city to stand up for Black-owned businesses,” a representative from Island Furs stated. “These businesses are essential to our neighborhoods, providing jobs and supporting families. We need city leadership to celebrate and nurture these contributions.”
Faith leaders say the city’s support for local businesses is especially critical as major retailers like Walgreens have shuttered locations in predominantly Black neighborhoods. They argue that policies should reflect a commitment to strengthening community-based enterprises rather than weakening them.
“The proposed ordinance poses more than just a financial threat; it attacks the cultural fabric of the community,” said Pastor Jarvis Hanson of MPAC Chicago. “Black-owned businesses represent the history, resilience, and creativity of our neighborhoods. Forcing these businesses to close sends a damaging message that their contributions do not matter and that the city is willing to sacrifice cultural richness for policies that intentionally overlook their significance.”
The potential closure of Island Furs and similar businesses would erode the unique cultural identity of Black and minority-owned enterprises, which serve as community gathering spaces and sources of pride, supporters said.
Pastor Walter P. Turner III of the Baptist Ministers Conference of Chicago and Vicinity emphasized that backing Black-owned businesses must go beyond rhetoric. “Supporting Black-owned businesses isn’t something that’s just said during election season; it requires a commitment all year long,” he said.
Faith leaders are urging city officials to reconsider any ordinance that would negatively impact Black-owned businesses, including Island Furs, and to work toward solutions that support their longevity.
“Let’s come together to protect our heritage, our businesses, and the future of our community,” they said in a joint statement.