Staff Reports
In the heart of Chicago, a city often dominated by Democratic policies for decades, Pastor Corey Brooks is rising as a beacon of hope and change. Affectionately known as the “rooftop pastor,” Brooks spent an impressive 343 days on a roof to spotlight violence in his community and collect funds for a community center dedicated to uplifting those around him. This endeavor aims to transform what has been known as “O Block,” infamous for its violence, into “Opportunity Block”—a place of hope and prosperity.
The pastor’s message is one of empowerment and personal responsibility, diverging sharply from the dependency preaching often attributed to Democrats. He argues that the policies of the last 70 years have stifled growth and fostered a culture of victimhood among many residents. In his view, the narrative that paints Donald Trump as a racist or a white supremacist is a fabrication that simply doesn’t resonate with his community. Instead of accepting these labels, they find humor in those allegations and focus on more pressing concerns like education, violence reduction, and the creation of small business opportunities.
Indeed, many in Brooks’ community have shifted their political stance. When Trump was elected in 2016, 12.41% of Chicagoans voted for him. By 2020, that number soared to 22%. These statistics reflect a growing discontent with Democratic policies and a desire for something different—a realization that change can come from a renewed embrace of conservative values. Brooks has taken these ideals to heart, championing personal agency, responsibility, and the importance of hard work in a community that has often felt overlooked.
The pastor’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Recently, he celebrated a significant milestone: raising a steel beam for the new community center, symbolizing hope for a neighborhood that has witnessed little positive development for years. This $40 million project is set to open in the summer and represents much more than just a building; it embodies a commitment to revitalization, reminding residents of their worth and abilities to shape their futures.
While Brooks acknowledges the strides made since Trump’s election, he emphasizes that the journey is far from complete. Their impact on their community measures a leader’s effectiveness, and he has made it his mission to continue building infrastructure and the very essence of community spirit. By encouraging discussions about serious issues and rallying his neighbors around principles of accountability and uplift, Pastor Brooks is carving a path of transformation in a place that needs it most. His work is a promise of change, which he intends to keep. God bless him, and God bless America as they strive together toward a brighter future.
