By J.J. Quincannon, The Chicago Times
May 20, 2023
CHICAGO — Mayor Brandon Johnson announced Friday the appointment of Garien Gatewood as the City of Chicago’s Deputy Mayor of Community Safety.
As the first-ever Deputy Mayor of Community Safety, Gatewood will be responsible for leading cross-government efforts to eliminate the root causes of crime and violence, and advance a comprehensive, healing-centered approach to public safety.
“Building a safer Chicago means we must address the root causes of crime with a comprehensive approach. As my Deputy Mayor for Community Safety, I know Garien Gatewood will help advance that vision and create safer neighborhoods in every corner of our city by investing in people, especially our youth,” said Mayor Johnson in a press release.
“I am humbled by this opportunity to advance a holistic and comprehensive approach to community safety,” said Garien Gatewood. “I’ve worked with the young people of Chicago for years, and I know that together we can deliver on a vision for a stronger, safer city that addresses the root causes of violence, provides support for youth and adults alike, and lifts up every neighborhood.”
Gatewood currently serves as the Director of the Illinois Justice Project where he has helped in developing strategies to lift up youths and adults, providing support for returning residents, and helping to guide policy in support of the Illinois SAFE-T Act. Johnson hopes Gatewood will serve a key role in carrying Johnson’s public safety vision with a focus on community engagement and diversion programs.
In addition, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker appointed Gatewood to serve on the board of the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, the state agency that directs the development and coordination of programs designed to enhance and improve public safety.
According to the 2023 budget for the City, Deputy Mayors could make over $170,000 per year.
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