Natalie Dalea
Natalie’s journalism centers midwestern Latinx communities and the unique cultures that arise in this region of the US. Before working at WBEZ, Natalie also wrote science communications for the Field Museum. Two years of chemical engineering combined with her English degree have given her a passion for environmental justice. Her work explains how the natural world affects our embedded human communities. Her writing has been nominated for a 2020 Pushcart Prize and earned her a Hedgebrook Fellowship.
Stories by Natalie Dalea
A Nooks-And-Crannies Field Guide To Chicago Plants
These ten tenacious plants grow everywhere from railroad tracks to sidewalk cracks. Three experts explain how they survive city life.
The Far South Side Unveils A New Art Gallery And Affordable Housing For Artists
After 10 years, the Pullman neighborhood gets a community-run gallery that will offer South Siders access to art and elevate local talent.
A 1990s Mural At The 18th Street Station Will Be Restored By A Pilsen Artist
The murals came out of a long tradition of community-based art in Chicago, which began with the Chicano movement in the 1960s.
A Citizen’s Guide To Proposing Legislation in Chicago
In Chicago, you don’t have to be an elected official to submit legislation to City Council. But like most things in this city, it helps to know someone.
Lessons Small Businesses Have Learned A Year Into The Pandemic
We asked small businesses in Chicago how they’ve been doing — and what they’ve been doing — over the past year. Here’s what they had to say.
Why Are Chicago’s Playgrounds Still Closed?
Evanston and Oak Park have reopened playgrounds, with safety guidelines. Could Chicago do something similar?