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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOSE “CHA CHA” JIMENEZ
WHEREAS, Jose “Cha Cha” Jimenez, founder of the Young Lords Organization, was a visionary leader, organizer, and activist whose lifelong dedication to justice, equality, and the empowerment of Puerto Ricans and marginalized communities has left an indelible mark on Cook County and beyond; and
WHEREAS, born on August 8, 1948, in Caguas, Puerto Rico, to Puerto Rican parents, José “Cha Cha” Jiménez grew up in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, where he witnessed firsthand the systemic injustices of poverty, displacement, and racial inequality; and
WHEREAS, in 1968, Jose “Cha Cha” Jimenez transformed the Young Lords Organization from a street gang into a powerful political and social movement advocating for the rights of Puerto Rican and other Latino communities, promoting grassroots organizing, self-determination, and community empowerment; and
WHEREAS, under Jimenez’s leadership, the Young Lords played a pivotal role in raising awareness about issues such as gentrification, police brutality, housing inequities, educational disparities, and healthcare access while also forming coalitions like the first Rainbow Coalition with other working-class movements and organizations in Chicago, like the Black Panther Party and the Young Patriots Organization, to fight for racial and economic justice; and
WHEREAS, Jose “Cha Cha” Jimenez worked tirelessly to establish programs like free breakfast initiatives, community health clinics, and cultural centers, demonstrating his commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities rooted in mutual aid and solidarity; and
WHEREAS, the Young Lords’ activism and Jimenez’s leadership have inspired generations of activists and organizers across Cook County and the nation, serving as a powerful reminder of the strength of collective action in the fight for justice; and
WHEREAS, Jose “Cha Cha” Jimenez continued his advocacy throughout his life, reflecting a steadfast dedication to his principles and an enduring commitment to uplifting the voices of the oppressed; and
WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners recognizes the profound contributions of Jose “Cha Cha” Jimenez to the Puerto Rican community, Cook County, and the broader struggle for social justice;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners, on behalf of the residents of Cook County, does hereby honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Jose “Cha Cha” Jimenez and express our deepest gratitude for his tireless advocacy, leadership, and unwavering pursuit of equality and justice for all; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Jose “Cha Cha” Jimenez as a symbol of our respect, admiration, and heartfelt condolences.
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