Sangamon County Board Chair Andy Van Meter and State Senator Doris Turner announced the appointment of two new co-chairs for the Massey Commission, who will join current co-chair Dr. Jerry Kruse, Dean and Provost of SIU School of Medicine and CEO of SIU Medicine.
“We are pleased to announce that JoAnn Johnson and Shadia Massey, cousin of Sonya Massey, have agreed to serve with Dr. Kruse as the new co-chairs of the commission,” said Andy Van Meter.
State Senator Doris Turner emphasized the importance of the commission's responsiveness to the community, especially following a recent public session. “This change in leadership comes after a successful September 16th listening session in which more than twenty county residents spoke out about their hopes and concerns for the commission. As we have been from the beginning, we will continue to be responsive to community voices in this process.”
During the September 16 listening session, participants previewed the draft mission, values, and areas of focus for the Massey Commission. Many offered input regarding the leadership, selection of members, scope, and authority of the commission.
Pastor T. Ray McJunkins, who is stepping down as co-chair, reflected on the commission’s approach. “The co-chairs have been committed to listening and learning first, even while others are pushing for immediate action. One of the things we have consistently heard is that it is important to have the Massey family represented in the leadership of the commission. My transition makes a way for that.”
Nina Harris, another outgoing co-chair, echoed the sentiment, explaining her limited-term involvement. “My intention was always to volunteer and be present for the construction phase of the commission,” said Harris. “I’m proud of our work so far, and I’m grateful to Shadia and JoAnn for answering the call to lead.”
The new co-chairs, Johnson and Massey, will need additional time to transition into their roles and review the commission’s structure and selection process. As a result, the announcement of additional commissioners and the previously scheduled September 30 hearing will be delayed.
Dr. Kruse acknowledged the balance between urgency and thoughtful progress. “In the last few weeks, I’ve heard the stories and personal experiences of many who want to assure that the commission is built to truly listen to the citizens of Sangamon County. This work is urgent, but as I heard at the listening session, the hard work of reform, cultural change, and anti-racism can be seemingly slow. We will move forward in a way that is responsive to the community.”
The Massey Commission was announced on August 16, 2024, by Sangamon County Board Chair Andy Van Meter and State Senator Doris Turner. It is a citizens' commission established in response to the tragic killing of Sonya Massey by a former Sangamon County deputy in July 2024. The commission is committed to leading a process for the community to listen, learn, and act.
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