2026's Community Leader Awardee: Uptown People's Law Center

Each year the Clear Language Lab honors a community organization that has shown meaningful commitment to equitable communication and plain language. This year we are happy to acknowledge the work of Cook Uptown People's Law Center (UPLC) as the recipient of the Clear Language Lab’s Community Leader Award.

Having access to high quality legal services is essential but not always accessible. UPLC is a vital, community-based legal clinic that focuses on supporting marginalized people in the greater Chicago area and incarcerated individuals across Illinois. We were fortunate to learn about the work of UPLC up close last year when we supported a project helping community members who have been arrested, jailed, or imprisoned understand their legal rights when it comes to housing.

We had a discussion with Maurice Hughes, an UPLC Outreach Coordinator, about his work and the efforts of UPLC to make sure people have a clear understanding of their legal rights.

Here are some highlights from our conversation:

"It's hard for you to exercise your rights if you don't fully understand what your rights are."

In his work, Maurice tries to make sure information is communicated properly and people have access to what they need. He believes people should be able to take action with the information they are given.

Straight-forward, easy to understand information helps people to engage more with your organization.

When you show up and meet people where they are, they are more at ease and feel supported. They feel that the work is personal to them and not just a job you're trying get done.

"It's always better to listen first before you start explaining."

It's easy to get into the habit of thinking that you already know what is going on. If you take the time to listen, however, you can hear the unique story of the person speaking to you. Their story may be different than what you originally thought.

Involve the community in your work.

If you do community presentations or trainings, it is important to share them with the community. Their feedback can help identify things that are unclear or if any changes need to be made.

We are proud to support and uplift the work of Uptown People's Law Center. They are helping to make the world a more just, equitable and accessible place through their legal work.

If you would like to watch the entire conversation we had with Maurice, you can view it here.