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Your mention of the Hispanic Democratic Organization made it appear that the people involved were merely motivated by “expensive City Hall jobs.” I know Al Sanchez, Ray Gamboa, and George Esquivel, and they also don’t need to justify or make apologies for being employed by the city. These are honorable men who certainly merit the support of the Hispanic community. Beyond their job responsibilities they all have a history of community service in South Chicago and the east side. It is true they can organize campaigns and help get the vote out, but they also support neighborhood Little League and basketball teams and respond to the needs of the community.
I don’t know if it’s the $2 toll of the Chicago Skyway or the curves and turns of Route 41 south that keeps journalists away from South Chicago and the east side, but these men grew up there and continue to help their neighbors. I invite you to visit these communities and see for yourself; both receive very little positive media coverage and even fewer issues of the Reader. Consider this an idea for another cover story.
