RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Sister Cities International was established in 1956 to further global understanding by encouraging and assisting United States communities and their citizens to join together with cities around the world; and
WHEREAS, Since 1960, Chicago Sister Cities International has established strong ties with 28 Sister Cities around the world; and
WHEREAS, These partnerships continue to enhance international cooperation and understanding through community involvement and people-to-people relationships; and
WHEREAS, These ties have increased international trade, economic development, tourism, cultural exchanges and educational opportunities; and
WHEREAS, Chicago is a global city comprised of diverse communities and neighborhoods and a leader in forging long-lasting relationships throughout the world; and
WHEREAS, 2018 marks the 25th anniversary of Chicago's Sister City relationship with Birmingham, United Kingdom; and
WHEREAS, Chicago and Birmingham are both historic industrial and manufacturing hubs; and
WHEREAS, Chicago and Birmingham are known for their extensive park systems; and
WHEREAS, Chicago and Birmingham are both known for the legacies of their athletic teams and sportsculture; and
WHEREAS, Both Chicago and Birmingham are fondly known as "The Second City" in their respective countries; and
WHEREAS, Chicago shares a long history of friendship and cooperation with the people of the United Kingdom; and
WHEREAS, The United Kingdom has made vital contributions to the development of Chicago through its history and continues to play an important role in the cultural, civic and economic life of our city; and
WHEREAS, Chicago looks forward to working closely with Birmingham and the United Kingdom into the future; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and Members of the City Council of the City of Chicago, assembled this twenty-eighth day of February, 2018, do hereby honor Chicago's 25th
anniversary with Birmingham, United Kingdom, and commemorate the contributions that th relationship has brought to the citizens of the City of Chicago; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to The Honorable John Saville, Her Majesty's Consul General, Consulate General of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.