Record #: R2023-667   
Type: Resolution Status: Adopted
Intro date: 4/19/2023 Current Controlling Legislative Body:
Final action: 4/19/2023
Title: Commemoration of Arab American Heritage Month
Sponsors: Lightfoot, Lori E. , Coleman, Stephanie D. , Gardiner, James M. , Moore, David H., Mitts, Emma, Osterman, Harry, Scott, Monique L. , Rodriguez Sanchez, Rossana , Hairston, Leslie A., Abarca, Anabel , Ramirez-Rosa, Carlos, Rodriguez, Michael D., Sposato, Nicholas, Villegas, Gilbert, Hadden, Maria E. , Vasquez, Jr., Andre, O'Shea, Matthew J., Cappleman, James, Waguespack, Scott, Knudsen, Timothy R., Dowell, Pat, La Spata, Daniel , Martin, Matthew J.
Attachments: 1. R2023-667.pdf
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR CITY OF CHICAGO
LORI E. LIGHTFOOT MAYOR
April 19, 2023
TO THE HONORABLE. THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHICAGO
Ladies and Gentlemen:
1 transmit herewith, together with Aldermen Coleman, Gardiner, Moore, Mitts, Osterman, Scott, Rodriguez Sanchez, Hairston, Abarca, Ramirez-Rosa, Rodriguez, Sposato, Villegas, Hadden, Vasquez, O'Shea, Cappleman, Waguespack, Knudsen, Dowell, La Spata and Martin, a resolution commemorating Arab American Heritage Month.
Your favorable consideration of this resolution will be appreciated.
Very truly yours,
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, From April 1 through April 30 each year, the United States celebrates Arab American Heritage Month; and
WHEREAS, Arab Americans are part of the fabric of Chicago, and have played an important role in shaping, advancing, and enriching this City with their rich cultures, traditions, and histories; and
WHEREAS, In the middle of the twentieth century, Arab Americans established communities in the Chicago Lawn and Gage Park community areas, and those neighborhoods, along with many others, remain home to thriving Arab American populations; and
WHEREAS, Arab Americans now have a significant presence throughout the City of Chicago, Cook County, and the State of Illinois; and
WHEREAS, The United States Census Bureau reports that the statewide Arab American population is close to 143,000, with at least 108,000 in the Chicago area, although experts estimate that this number is likely significantly lower than the actual number of Arab Americans residing in Illinois; and
WHEREAS, In recognition of their unique needs, the State of Illinois General Assembly has introduced a bill ensuring that Arab Americans are counted in government data; and
WHEREAS, During Arab American Heritage Month, it is imperative to increase awareness about key issues and priorities within the Arab American community and combat harmful stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination; and
WHEREAS, Arab Americans have made innumerable contribut...

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