Taft attorneys Moira O'Connor, Sylvia Michas, and Graham Grady played a pivotal role in securing regulatory approvals for the upcoming Chicago River Swim, a landmark event returning to the city for the first time since 1927. The Taft legal team provided code regulation and government relations guidance, helping the event gain approval from the City of Chicago and other key agencies.
The swim is a fundraiser for A Long Swim, a nonprofit dedicated to raising funds for research to cure Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells controlling voluntary muscle movement.
The Chicago River Swim revives a tradition that dates back to the early 20th century but was discontinued due to pollution concerns. Thanks to decades of environmental advocacy and the implementation of the federal Clean Water Act, the river has now reached a level of cleanliness that makes it safe for public swimming. Taft is a sponsor of the event.