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Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – There is new leadership for the Massey Commission. Sangamon County Board Chair Andy Van Meter and State Senator Doris Turner announced Thursday that JoAnn Johnson, retired Illinois State Police trooper, and Shadia Massey, cousin to Sonya Massey, will join Dr. Jerry Kruse, dean and provost of SIU School of Medicine and CEO of SIU Medicine, as co-chairs of the Massey Commission. This change comes after a listening session on Sept. 16.
Pastor T. Ray McJunkins, who is stepping down as a co-chair, said it’s important to have members of the Massey family in leadership roles. At the recent listening session, allegations of sexual misconduct were raised by one speaker, Springfield resident Breonna Roberts. When asked about the allegations following the listening session, McJunkins had no comment other than to say he was surprised by the comments.
Nina Harris, another outgoing co-chair, said “My intention was always to volunteer and be present for the construction phase of the commission. I’m proud of our work so far, and I’m grateful to Shadia and JoAnn for answering the call to lead.”
Because of the change, the planned Sept. 30 hearing will be delayed. “In the last few weeks, I’ve heard the stories and personal experiences of many who want to assure that the commission is built to truly listen to the citizens of Sangamon County,” said Dr. Kruse. “This work is urgent, but as I heard at the listening session, the hard work of reform, cultural change and anti-racism can be seemingly slow. We will move forward in a way that is responsive to the community.”
The Massey Commission was formed after the shooting death of Sonya Massey by a Sangamon County deputy at her home on July 6.