Skokie’s Changing Elections
In this conversation, host Aaron Masliansky interviews Skokie Village Board candidates Dr. Keith Robinson and Khemarey Khoeun about their backgrounds, motivations for public service, and the significant changes in Skokie's political landscape. They discuss the impact of the Skokie Caucus Party, the importance of civility in local politics, and the key issues facing the community, including housing affordability and community representation. The candidates emphasize the need for public engagement and the ongoing efforts to address local challenges, including the redesign of the village seal to better reflect the community's values.
In this conversation, host Aaron Masliansky interviews Skokie Village Board candidates Dr. Keith Robinson and Khemarey Khoeun about their backgrounds, motivations for public service, and the significant changes in Skokie's political landscape. They discuss the impact of the Skokie Caucus Party, the importance of civility in local politics, and the key issues facing the community, including housing affordability and community representation. The candidates emphasize the need for public engagement and the ongoing efforts to address local challenges, including the redesign of the village seal to better reflect the community's values.
Keith and Khem Website: https://www.keithandkhem.com
Village of Skokie: https://www.skokie.org
Takeaways
- Public service often begins with a commitment to education.
- Diversity in representation is crucial for community governance.
- Recent changes in Skokie's political structure aim to enhance democracy.
- Civility in local politics is essential for community cohesion.
- Housing affordability is a pressing issue that requires innovative solutions.
- Community engagement is vital for effective governance.
- The Skokie Caucus Party has historically influenced local elections.
- Public-private partnerships can drive economic development.
- Understanding local governance can empower residents to get involved.
- The redesign of the village seal reflects a commitment to inclusivity.
Sound Bites
- "It's democracy at work."
- "We need to respect that process."
- "Housing is a national issue."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Skokie's Village Board Candidates
07:14 Backgrounds of the Candidates
12:53 Changes in Skokie's Political Landscape
18:53 The Role of the Skokie Caucus Party
23:16 Maintaining Civility in Local Politics
27:48 Building Community Through Collaboration
28:46 Economic Development and Infrastructure Challenges
31:13 Revitalizing Main Street and Public-Private Partnerships
33:08 Addressing Housing Affordability and Inventory Issues
39:29 The Importance of Local Elections and Community Involvement
50:09 Understanding the Village Seal and Community Representation
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Dr. Keith Robinson
Dr. Keith A. Robinson, a native of Gary, IN, holds a B.A. in Secondary English Education from Ball State University, a Master's in Education Administration and Supervision from Roosevelt University, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from National Louis University. With almost three decades of experience in education, Keith taught English at various schools in Indiana and Illinois before transitioning to high school administration.
His career in administration began as the Dean of Students at Niles West High School, and later, he served as the Assistant Principal of Operations at Niles North High School, supporting day-to-day school functions. Currently, Keith is the Associate Principal of Educational Services at Evanston Township High School.
Throughout his life, Keith has been dedicated to education and service, particularly focusing on social justice, equity, and access. He has actively participated in various organizations, such as Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc, Foundation65, FAN (Family Action Network), and a multitude of professional education groups. Keith also serves on the Foundation Board at Ball State University and as a Trustee for the Village of Skokie.
Apart from his professional achievements, Keith is a “Dance Dad”, who has never missed his daughter’s dance performances. He shares his life with his wife, Sharon, and they have two daughters, Taryn(20) and Kari(18), who are passionate about dance. Taryn is attending Duke University studying Psychology with a certification in Management and Marketing, still continuing her passion for da…
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Khem Khoeun
Candidate, Skokie Trustee At-Large
Khem's story is one of resilience and determination. Born in a refugee camp, she has committed herself to uplifting her children and community by fostering collective and inter-generational healing. Her remarkable journey serves as an inspiration, resonating not only within our community but also reaching people worldwide.
Khem began her journey as a community organizer, working within a prominent immigrant-led coalition to unite diverse groups against harmful national policies. In 2017, amidst attacks on immigrants and women, Khem took a bold step to run for public office, aiming to create a safe and inclusive environment for her children and other families.
Breaking barriers, Khem achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Cambodian American woman elected to any position in the country. Being an immigrant and a child of refugees, she intimately understands the struggles these communities face. Leveraging her background as a coalition builder and advocate for immigrant and human rights, she is committed to bringing about positive change in our community.
