Last night was the final episode of One Chicago’s Chicago Fire for Season 12. I literally cried during the final group scene because #ChiefBoden is leaving 51.
When I began watching and loving the show in 2012, I had no idea that four years later I would be working alongside their amazing cast and crew. We are all going to miss our friend Eamonn Roderique both personally and professionally.
Alexander Pissios introduced me to Eamonn in 2017. We were in the process of starting a diversity job training program in TVandFilm. Eamonn explained his desire to help the youth in Chicago by inspiring the young ones and helping the young adults feel welcome in our industry and to get jobs.
There was not one time when I called on Eamonn to come to a community meeting, join a meeting with an elected official, show up at a press conference, etc. when it did not happen. He made sure that trainees coming in knew they had an ally in him and that he would be there if they needed him, which they sometimes did.
Eamonn, also had programs that he was involved with that I was happy to help too. We were truly partners in purpose and rebels with a cause. We were equally determined to create the change we wanted to see!
Eamonn, you have a heart of gold and we are all better off having you in our lives. I love you and will miss you but as you say, we’re only a phone call away. Expect to hear from me when I need to hear one of your “we cannot get discouraged and have a responsibility to create change” speeches.
Thank you for getting into “Good Trouble” with me over the last several years.
ALSO READ:
Sheila R. Brown is the Vice President, Equity & Inclusion at AICP
