Quigley Goes “Undercover” at Metro

Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, went "undercover" at Metro Chicago in Wrigleyville. Quigley worked as a loader for the day, helping unload equipment, roll cases, carry gear and set the stage for the Peter Hook & the Light show.

"I was excited to use this undercover opportunity to visit an iconic Chicago spot—Metro, and learn what it's like to be a part of their team. The Metro has been a staple of our community for years, and I recently worked to help them obtain needed funding to keep their doors open during the pandemic. As I saw today, that work has paid off, and they have continued to be a focal point of our city," said Rep. Quigley. "Throughout the years, I've gone undercover in the community to meet with people and catch a small glimpse into their lives and their work. I've loaded garbage trucks, delivered mail, and handed out school lunches. Each experience has opened my eyes to the needs of my community and ways in which I can better serve them."

"The idea of Mike Quigley wanting to be part of the Metro team today is an exemplary action from our 'Friend in Washington.' When our venues shuttered, it was during those hard days and nights that Quigley took every call, returned every email, and helped us battle back to life," said Joe Shanahan, Founder and Owner of Metro. "We are thrilled to show Mike Quigley a behind-the-scenes look at the venue he has so diligently supported, especially during a time when we celebrate our 40th Anniversary today with Peter Hook, who has actually played every decade Metro has been open!"

The Metro has been an iconic landmark in Chicago for over 40 years. Unfortunately, the pandemic left them and many other venues vulnerable and at risk of closing. Quigley worked with the Small Business Administration to help the Metro obtain a Shuttered Venue Operators Grant so they, and other venues in need, could stay open during the pandemic. Peter Hook's previous band "New Order" was one the first concerts the Metro booked in 1983. He is also the founding member of rock group, "Joy Division."

Since taking office in 2009, Quigley has worked alongside fifth district residents in dozens of jobs to better understand the challenges his constituents face on a daily basis. In total, Quigley has participated in nearly 100 different undercover experiences ranging from making candy at the Mars factory, cleaning the Rhino pen at Lincoln Park Zoo, shadowing cafeteria workers at Lakeview High School, collecting tickets at Wrigley Field, and much more.

Photos of Quigley's Metro visit can be found HERE.