Meet Glenford Flowers Jr.
My name is Glenford Flowers, and I am a proud Afro-Belizean American, lifelong Chicago resident, Political Science student, community activist, and candidate for Alderman of Chicago's 18th Ward.
I believe that politicians should work for ordinary people, not special interests, political insiders, or outside developers. My commitment to public service comes from years of community involvement, environmental stewardship, and grassroots organizing throughout Chicago's Southwest Side.
Growing up in Chicago, I witnessed firsthand the challenges facing working families: neglected infrastructure, environmental concerns, underinvestment in neighborhoods, and a lack of meaningful community input in decisions that affect our daily lives. Rather than accepting these problems as permanent, I chose to become involved and help create solutions.
My record of community service includes volunteering to improve and preserve local public spaces. I have participated in clean-up efforts at Bogan Park, helping maintain one of our community's most important recreational spaces. I have also volunteered at Steelworkers Park, where I worked to remove invasive plant species and support environmental restoration efforts that protect native ecosystems and improve access to green space for residents. Additionally, I have volunteered with the Dunning Read Natural Area, assisting with litter removal, habitat restoration, and community beautification projects.
My passion for civic engagement extends beyond environmental work. As a student leader, I served as Vice President of Student Government at Richard J. Daley College, advocating for students and promoting greater participation in campus affairs. Today, I am pursuing a degree in Political Science while maintaining academic excellence and continuing my commitment to public service.
I have also been active in efforts addressing environmental justice, racial justice, socio-economic justice, housing concerns, voting rights, government accountability, and community empowerment. I believe strong neighborhoods are built when residents have a real voice in shaping their future.
Beyond local activism, I have gained firsthand experience working within Illinois' legislative process. I have lobbied state lawmakers on behalf of Transform Higher Education Illinois, advocating for policies that expand educational opportunity, affordability, and access for students across Illinois. I also participated in the Model Illinois Government program in Springfield, where I worked alongside students from across the state to better understand legislative procedures, policymaking, and public leadership.
Additionally, I participated in advocacy efforts during the National Association of Social Workers Illinois Chapter Advocacy Day, meeting with legislators and supporting policies that strengthen social services, mental health resources, and protections for vulnerable communities throughout Illinois.
One of my most significant initiatives has been developing the Ford City Plaza Proposal, a bold vision for transforming the Ford City area into a mixed-use destination that creates jobs, attracts investment, expands public amenities, and serves as a catalyst for economic development throughout the South Side. Instead of settling for short-term projects that provide limited community benefits, I have advocated for a long-term vision that prioritizes economic opportunity, public gathering spaces, entertainment, tourism, and sustainable growth for local residents.
As Alderman, my priorities include:
Revitalizing the Ford City area through the Ford City Plaza Proposal.
Improving roads, sidewalks, and public infrastructure throughout the ward.
Expanding and protecting green spaces and parks.
Addressing environmental concerns and pollution affecting our neighborhoods.
Increasing government transparency and accountability.
Supporting local businesses and creating opportunities for working families.
Ensuring residents have a direct voice in ward decisions.
Creating a South-Side Reinvestment vision with the help of other Alderpersons to elevate our communities.
I am running for Alderman because I believe the people of the 18th Ward deserve leadership that is present, accessible, and accountable. Our communities have tremendous potential, and by working together, we can create safer neighborhoods, stronger local businesses, cleaner environments, and a better future for the next generation.
Together, we can build an 18th Ward that works for everyone.