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Before we say goodbye and good riddance to 2020, we'd like to propose a toast. This year was devastating for so many Chicagoans, but over the past 12 months, our hearts have swelled with pride as we've watched our city rally against the odds. It's been far from easy—and we still have a ways to go—but there's a flicker of light at the end of the tunnel. We'd be remiss if we didn't salute the folks who have made Chicago a better place along the way.
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Throughout the year, we've witnessed locals come together to share food and everyday necessities, raise money for Black-owned restaurants and support out-of-work musicians. Even in the depths of the state's stay-at-home order, Chicagoans ordered takeout and delivery and shopped local every chance they got. They stood up for each other by flooding city streets in protest of the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and countless other Black people who were killed at the hands of police.
And then there are the businesses themselves—the lifeblood of Chicago—that have kept us nourished, entertained and inspired despite the challenges stacked against them. They handed out free meals, put on virtual events and flipped their business models upside-down. "Thank you" doesn't even begin to cut it.
As we contemplate the new year in Chicago and ring in 2021 from home, we feel hopeful about the eventual return of the things we love: art, food, culture and travel. We'll continue to be here every step of the way, shouting about the people, places and things that help get us there. Here's to a brighter future ahead, Chicago.
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