Organizer. Mother. Advocate. Alderwoman.
Jeanette B. Taylor, affectionately known as “J.B.T.,” was born and raised on Chicago’s South Side. For more than two decades, Jeanette B. Taylor has stood alongside neighbors, families, and community leaders to fight for stronger schools, affordable housing, and a 20th Ward where longtime residents can thrive. Today, she continues that work in City Hall with the same commitment that first brought her into community organizing.
Her Story:
A Life Rooted in Service
​
Jeanette B. Taylor was born and raised on Chicago's South Side, where she learned early that strong communities are built by people who show up for one another. As a mother, longtime community organizer, and advocate, she spent years fighting for families long before she ever held public office. Her leadership grew through decades of community work, including more than 20 years serving on a Local School Council and organizing with the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization (KOCO). She became widely known for helping lead the 2015 hunger strike that saved Dyett High School, proving that when communities organize, real change is possible.
In 2019, Jeanette was elected Alderwoman of Chicago's 20th Ward, bringing the voice of grassroots organizing directly into City Hall. Since then, she has remained focused on expanding opportunity, protecting longtime residents, supporting neighborhood businesses, and making government more accessible and accountable to the people it serves.
​
Why I Serve:
Why I Chose to Run
​
I didn't run for office because I wanted a title. I ran because I wanted families like mine to have someone who understood their struggles and would fight alongside them. I've experienced the challenges that so many residents face. I've seen what happens when people don't have access to information, resources, or a seat at the table. That's why I've always believed government should work with the community, not around it.
​
Every decision I make begins with one question:
How does this help the people of the 20th Ward?
​
Leadership Values:
​
Honesty
I believe residents deserve straightforward answers, even when the conversations are difficult.
Community
The best ideas come from the people who live here. My job is to listen, organize, and advocate.
Accountability
Leadership means showing up, answering questions, and taking responsibility for every decision.
Opportunity
Every family deserves access to safe housing, quality education, thriving businesses, and the resources needed to succeed.
Contact
-
Email: info@jeanettebtaylor.com
-
Office: 2040 W. 63rd St., Chicago, IL 60636
-
Phone: (312) XXX-XXXX (placeholder in the draft)