Senator Emil Jones, Jr. (Finding Aid)

Senator Emil Jones, Jr.

1935 -

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Food: Spaghetti

Favorite Time of Year: Spring

Interview Length: 158 minutes

Interview Date(s): January 6, 2000, January 18, 2000

Interview Location(s): Chicago, Illinois

Abstract

Illinois State Senator and Senate Majority Leader, Emil Jones details his life in Chicago. Born in Morgan Park, Jones discusses life in his "pocket" & segregated neighborhood. He also recalls his elementary and high school education and how race intruded upon his education. Intreagued by the 1960 Presidential election, young Jones was drawn into politics. the segment closes with his recounting of his electoral triumph Illinois State senator and Senate Majority Leader, Emil Jones details his life in politics in Chicago and Springfield. He recalls his political mentor, Corneal Davis and how Davis intervened and showed him the ropes. Jones also offers first hand recollections of the jockying for Richard J. Daley's seat by Wilson Frost after his Daley's untimeley death and Frost's ulimate concession to the political realities that Chicago wasn't yet ready for a black mayor. Illinois Senate majority leader and senator, Emil Jones, offers insider details on the inner workings of the Illinois state legislature. Illinois state senate majority leader, Emil Jones, comments on the stae of education in Illinois and the U.S. He comments on recent legislation meant to imporve public education in Illinois, and the problems encountered by districts when funds are misused. Jones vehemently disagrees with the development of charter schools, feeling they remove much needed funding and resources from alrea Illinois Senate Leader Emil Jones discusses his political career since moving from the General Assembly to the Senate. He shares various ideas about politics and society and gives advice for African Americans entering politics. Illinois state senator and majority leader, Emil Jones delves into the internecine aspects of Chicago and Springfield politics. He also discusses the impact of race on the political arena as well. Finally, reluctant to write his own epitatph, Jones details his hopes and projected accomplishments.

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