2558 W. 63rd St., Chicago, IL 60629
(773) 471-8208
info@swopchicago.org
swopchicago.org
SWOP (Southwest Organizing Project) was founded in 1996 to address structural racism on Chicago’s southwest side by fostering multiracial and multicultural community cohesion. Recognizing that eradicating structural racism requires collective action from the entire community, SWOP engages residents through storytelling, shared experiences, and mutual respect for cultural differences. Originating as a coalition of local Catholic parishes responding to the area’s demographic shifts, SWOP evolved into a broad-based organization incorporating faith institutions, schools, and nonprofits. It emphasizes leadership development, particularly for leaders of color, and empowers residents to influence policies affecting their lives. Serving neighborhoods like Chicago Lawn, Gage Park, and Ashburn, SWOP represents over 40,000 residents and works to rebuild neighborhood networks, amplify diverse voices, and advocate for equity and inclusion in decision-making.