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Join date: Feb 13, 2026

About

Gregory Chambers is a seasoned advocate, organizer, and policy expert dedicated to advancing criminal justice reform and community empowerment in Illinois. With an extensive career spanning law enforcement, grassroots organizing, and policy leadership, he has emerged as a pivotal figure in the fight to end permanent punishments and promote equitable justice.


Currently serving as the Director of Policy at the Illinois Coalition to End Permanent Punishments (ENDPP), Gregory oversees strategic initiatives aimed at transformative policy changes. His leadership has been instrumental in driving statewide campaigns, including the Fully Free campaign and the Clean Slate Illinois campaign, advocating for automatic record sealing and expungement.


Since 2024, Gregory has served as a member of the Traffic and Pedestrian Stop Data Task Force under the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA), contributing to efforts aimed at addressing disparities and improving data-driven policy in Illinois.


Gregory's journey began with his tenure as a Chicago police officer, where he gained firsthand insights into the complexities of the criminal justice system. He later expanded his understanding of these complexities within the prison system following a criminal conviction. Leveraging these experiences, he transitioned into advocacy, taking on key roles such as policy organizer at Live Free Illinois and advocacy leader with the Community Renewal Society.


A passionate communicator and organizer, Gregory has led impactful events such as rallies at the Illinois State Capitol and teach-ins across the state, fostering engagement and dialogue on critical issues like voter engagement and criminal justice reform. He has also collaborated with legislators and directly impacted individuals to host forums and workshops that bridge gaps between policymakers and communities.


Gregory’s commitment to leadership development is evident through his participation in esteemed programs such as Just Leadership USA’s “Leading with Conviction” cohort (2024) and “Emerging Leaders,” the Black Futures Lab Policy Institute Fellowship (2022–2023), People’s Coalition for Safety and Freedom, and multiple advocacy and leadership training initiatives.


He attended institutions including Eastern Illinois University, Harold Washington College, Illinois Valley Community College, and the Chicago Police Academy, underscoring his dedication to lifelong learning and professional growth.

Gregory Chambers remains a dedicated advocate for justice, equity, and opportunity, with a vision for building safer, more inclusive communities.


Posts (4)

Feb 24, 20263 min
FY 2027: Reinvesting in Community, Building a Solid Foundation
Let me tell you a story about the future of Illinois—a story that starts with a number that represents a world of second chances: $5.6 million. In the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 state budget, that $5.6 million is dedicated to getting the Clean Slate Act off the ground. For anyone who has been trapped in the shadow of a past mistake, this isn't just a line item. This is the key to unlocking new jobs, finding safe housing, and finally leaving the criminal justice system in the rearview mirror.

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Feb 13, 20263 min
Keeping Families Connected: New Illinois Bill Seeks to Cap Prison Mail Costs and Protect In-Person Visits
For families navigating the criminal justice system, the cost of staying in touch with an incarcerated loved one is often an overwhelming financial burden. A new piece of legislation introduced in the Illinois General Assembly, House Bill 4235 , aims to dismantle these financial barriers and protect the right to physical visitation. Introduced on January 14, 2026, by Representative Rita Mayfield, this bill proposes significant amendments to the Unified Code of Corrections. If enacted, it...

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Feb 11, 20262 min
Breaking Barriers: How HB4277 Ends a Lifetime Ban and Opens the Door to Opportunity
For too long, a past conviction in Illinois has meant a lifetime of closed doors. These "Permanent Punishments" prevent thousands of residents from fully participating in the workforce and society, even decades after they have served their time. House Bill 4277, introduced by Representative Rita Mayfield for the 104th General Assembly, represents a concrete step toward tearing down these barriers and creating a pathway to being Fully Free. What HB4277 Does Currently, the Illinois Notary...

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Gregory Chambers

Gregory Chambers

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Director of Policy

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