Co-governance
Co-Governance: A Pathway Where Community Meets Governance
The Challenge
Chicago needs more equitable engagement models that center those most harmed by systemic inequities, positioning them as co-creators of solutions that directly impact their lives and communities. Historically, the City of Chicago has not governed through collaborative governance. Instead, community engagement has often been transactional and one-sided, contributing to mistrust and many unaddressed needs.
Mayor Brandon Johnson and community stakeholders have called for a shift toward co-governance—a model that ensures shared decision-making between government and the communities it serves.
Our Vision
We are working to establish and promote innovative engagement models designed to:
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Reduce harm
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Address systemic inequities
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Co-create solutions with those most impacted
Through the development of Chicago’s first Co-Governance Framework, the Office of Equity & Racial Justice (OERJ), Chicago United for Equity, and the Co-Governance Steering Committee aim to build a structure that fosters shared decision-making and collaborative governance between government and the community.
Why Co-Governance Matters
Local governance is more important than ever, especially given the national pushback against equity-focused work. Many Chicagoans—particularly those most impacted by systemic inequities—have been ignored, disengaged, or excluded from local decision-making.
As our city continues its efforts to advance equity, we must:
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Repair civic harm caused by decades of poor engagement
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Strengthen trust between government and residents
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Create a culture of shared decision-making that fosters true civic power
Co-governance is a pathway to transforming civic engagement into a more just and inclusive process.
Our Approach
We are building Chicago's first Co-Governance Framework with input from community members and local and national experts. Our approach includes:
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Defining Co-Governance: Establishing shared definitions, values, and principles with key local and national stakeholders.
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Modeling Co-Governance: Identifying opportunities to embed co-governance in policies, programs, and initiatives that address systemic inequities.
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Creating an Enabling Environment: Developing structures and resources that empower residents to meaningfully participate in governance.
Our Goals & Outcomes
Near-Term Goals
✔️ Adopt a shared definition and framework for co-governance
✔️ Build an environment that enables successful co-governance models
✔️ Launch pilot initiatives that showcase co-governance in action
Long-Term Impact
✔️ Increase civic participation and engagement
✔️ Repair civic trauma and build trust
✔️ Strengthen community power and influence
✔️ Foster accountability between government and residents
✔️ Address systemic inequities through community-led decision-making
Community Engagement: By the Numbers
📢 18 Community Conversations Hosted Across Chicago
👥 200+ Community Participants Engaged
💬 5 Focus Group Conversations with Local Government-Community Partnership Tables
🌎 3 Interviews with National Partners
Join the Movement
Co-governance is about building a city where every resident has a voice in shaping policies and decisions that impact their lives.
Learn more about this initiative and how you can get involved:
🔗 Visit: Chi.gov/co-governance
Learn more
February 6, 2025
Chicago Launches First Co-Governance Framework in Partnership with CUE:
Individuals are invited to provide public comment on the draft framework.
September 25, 2023