top of page

LyLena D. Estabine

from insight to action to empowerment

My Writing

In the Media

My writing featured in local and national outlets.

State lawmakers gut Emmett Till Day bill, expose Illinois’ corruption problem

The Center Square

Coach houses, other accessory dwelling units would boost housing equity in Black neighborhoods

Chicago Sun-Times

Harvard shouldn't just blame students for free speech woes

Minding the Campus

Chicago can't afford to stall on coach houses ordinance

Crain's Chicago Business

Housing regulations hold America back from racial equality

There's no affordable housing in Chicago without builders

Real Clear Markets

Braiding my sister's hair shouldn't require government permission

Chicago Sun-Times

Case Studies

I help organizations showcase how their product or service has helped others

Screenshot 2025-08-21 at 7.04.27 AM.png

Listen Labs X Microsoft

Screenshot 2025-08-21 at 7.05.38 AM.png

Listen Labs X Emerald

Screenshot 2025-08-21 at 7.05.19 AM.png

Listen Labs X Canva

Screenshot 2025-08-21 at 7.05.09 AM.png

Listen Labs X Chubbies

Screenshot 2025-08-21 at 7.04.58 AM.png

Listen Labs X Simple Modern

Screenshot 2025-08-21 at 7.05.30 AM.png

Listen Labs X Emeritus

Perspectives on Policy

I write about urban, economic, and fiscal policy for the Illinois Policy Institute. Check out some of my recent work below.

Market-oriented housing reforms gaining traction in Illinois

Chicago’s housing policy still promotes exclusion

Illinois law still says unpaid property taxes can rob you of home equity

Illinois lawmakers get chance to boost affordable family housing

Chicago’s commercial property taxes 2X U.S. city average, kill opportunity

Pension debt limits teacher pay, hurts recruitment in Illinois

Chicago neighborhoods see unequal housing restrictions

Rampart Letters

My personal blog where I discuss poetry, politics, and principle.

bottom of page