Black Development, Political Power & Chamber Committees That Move the Needle

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This show is powered by the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Wind Creek Casino Southland.

Every Saturday morning at 9 AM, we are LIVE on WVON 1690 AM and streaming everywhere on iHeartRadio.
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Good morning, Chicago! On today’s episode of The Wake Up Show Chicago, powered by the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Wind Creek Casino Southland, we’re talking development, decision-making, and direction—the kind that shapes communities and futures.

We’re joined by Aaron Gunn, Associate Managing Principal of IDG Architects, one of the premier Black-owned K–12 and higher education architecture firms in Illinois. Aaron also serves as a state-appointed Commissioner for the Metropolitan Airport Authority Peoria, which operates Peoria International Airport and Mt. Hawley Regional Airport. He breaks down the upcoming Harry Poe Manor Multi-Family Project in Waukegan, IL, and why Black leadership in development matters now more than ever.

We also sit down with Attorney Robert Johnson to unpack PACs, political influence, and the key political events scheduled for February—because understanding how power moves is part of protecting Black business interests.

Plus, we walk through the 12 committees of the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce, including IT, Banking, Healthcare, Construction, Black Media/PR/Marketing, Entertainment & Sports, Retail, Youth Entrepreneurship, Energy, and International Trade—showing how membership turns access into action.

We also take a moment to honor the life and legacy of Ayton Taylor, former Chair of International Trade and partner accountant for the Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones.

📻 LIVE every Saturday at 9:00 AM on WVON 1690 AM
🌍 Streaming worldwide on iHeartRadio
📞 Call in: (773) 591-1690
📺 Subscribe: @WakeUpShowChicago

If you care about Black business, Black development, and Black political power—this episode is for you.

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