OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
CITY OF CHICAGO
LORI E. LIGHTFOOT
MAYOR
June 22, 2022
TO THE HONORABLE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHICAGO
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I transmit herewith, together with Aldermen Waguespack, Martin, Garza, O'Shea, Rodriguez, Villegas, Brookins, Osterman, Sposato, Coleman, Hadden, Silverstein and Dowell, a resolution honoring Safe Passage workers.
Your favorable consideration of this resolution will be appreciated.
Very truly yours,
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the Chicago Public Schools Safe Passage program is offered to select schools to provide a positive, trusted adult presence for students as they travel to and from school; and
WHEREAS, Safe Passage workers are posted on designated routes throughout the City of Chicago and can be identified by their branded, neon-color vests; and
WHEREAS, since the program's launch at 35 schools in 2009, the Safe Passage program has expanded to include over 1,300 workers and more than 160 schools; and
WHEREAS, Chicago Public Schools and Safe Passage workers have partnered with the Chicago Park District to help kids get to and from summer programs at Park District locations; and
WHEREAS, at least one study has shown a double-digit drop in violent crime on streets where monitors such as the Safe Passage workers are posted, a benefit that lasts for hours after the arrival and dismissal bells; and
WHEREAS, the Safe Passage program has served as a model that has been emulated in cities and towns throughout the United States; and
WHEREAS, Safe Passage workers are employed by community-based organizations that are situated in the school communities they serve; and
WHEREAS, community-based solutions and neighborhood investment are key strategies to reducing crime and violence in the City of Chicago; and
WHEREAS, Safe Passage workers have demonstrated a commitment to serving our communities, have forged strong bonds with students and their families, and provide safe routes to and from school; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the Mayor and Members of the City Council of the City of Chicago, assembled this twenty-second day of June, 2022, do hereby honor the invaluable Safe Passage workers who have dedicated their time and energy to ensure the safety of our students.