Since his election as Illinois Attorney General in 2018, Kwame Raoul has made waves with bold initiatives, none more significant than his release of a comprehensive 696-page report on sexual abuse by Catholic clergy in Illinois.
The report detailed a staggering 451 clerics accused of abusing at least 1,997 children—far surpassing the 103 names previously disclosed by Illinois’ six Catholic dioceses. The findings sparked tensions with Cardinal Blase Cupich, the highest-ranking Catholic official in the state.
Challenging the Church
Raoul, who was raised Catholic and sent his children to Catholic schools, described the investigation as personally challenging. “It’s difficult for someone like me who grew up in the Church,” he admitted. Yet, his commitment to justice compelled him to ensure the survivors’ voices were heard.
Cardinal Cupich claimed he was blindsided by the report, but Raoul pushed back. “We’ve been in communication with all the dioceses in Illinois. After announcing our investigation, the Church disclosed 80 additional abusers. But survivors revealed even more names that hadn’t been disclosed,” Raoul said.
The report highlighted a broader issue: religious orders such as the Jesuits and Franciscans often operate semi-independently within dioceses. While they report to their own leadership, Raoul argued that diocesan bishops bear responsibility for abuse committed within their jurisdiction.
Raoul emphasized that the report’s goal was to offer healing to survivors who could no longer pursue legal action due to expired statutes of limitations. “We didn’t determine guilt. We presented the evidence. The Church made the determinations,” he clarified.
From Kenwood to the State Capitol
Raoul’s journey to public service is rooted in his family’s Haitian immigrant experience. His father, Dr. Janin Raoul, was a physician who bought a Kenwood mansion in 1967, fostering a sense of opportunity and resilience in his children.
After a less-than-stellar high school career, Raoul eventually found his calling in political science at DePaul University. Encouraged by legendary attorney Jewel LaFontant, he pursued law at Chicago-Kent College of Law. Despite struggles with language processing, Raoul excelled, crediting the rigorous demands of legal study for his success.
Inspired by Chicago’s first Black mayor, Harold Washington, Raoul ran unsuccessfully for city council twice. Reflecting on those defeats, he admitted, “I was running for myself, not for the greater good.”
Raoul’s persistence paid off in 2004 when he was appointed to fill Barack Obama’s vacated State Senate seat. His tenure was marked by bipartisan collaboration, including efforts to improve police accountability and protect voting rights for minorities.
Prioritizing Gun Violence and Consumer Protections
As Attorney General, Raoul has shifted focus to gun violence and organized crime. His office implemented Crime Gun Connect, a platform for tracing firearms used in crimes, and expanded the use of Illinois’ Red Flag Act to confiscate weapons from potentially dangerous individuals.
Raoul has also taken a stand against organized retail theft, providing resources to local police departments to dismantle sophisticated theft rings. “This isn’t just shoplifting. These rings use stolen goods to fund activities like gun trafficking and even terrorism,” he explained.
In collaboration with other attorneys general, Raoul is investigating social media platforms for their harmful effects on youth. “The damage is undeniable—bullying, anxiety, and even suicide. We’re collecting data and will take action,” he promised.
A Vision for Leadership
While some speculate Raoul may run for U.S. Senate, he has dismissed the idea, preferring roles where he can effect meaningful change. “I hold an incredible office where I can make a real impact,” he said. “The only other position I’d consider is Governor—where I could get things done.”
Through his work as Attorney General, Kwame Raoul has shown a steadfast commitment to justice, advocacy for survivors, and a vision for a safer, more equitable Illinois.