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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING NATIONAL ZOO AND AQUARIUM MONTH AND RECOGNIZING THE BROOKFIELD ZOO, SHEDD AQUARIUM, AND LINCOLN PARK ZOO FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO CONSERVATION, EDUCATION, AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
WHEREAS, the month of June is nationally recognized as Zoo and Aquarium Month, a time to highlight the important roles zoos and aquariums play in conservation, animal welfare, education, scientific research, and public engagement; and
WHEREAS, Cook County is home to three of the nation’s leading zoological and aquatic institutions: the Brookfield Zoo, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Lincoln Park Zoo, each of which has earned international acclaim for their excellence and innovation; and
WHEREAS, the Brookfield Zoo, operated by the Chicago Zoological Society and located in Brookfield, Illinois, has welcomed millions of visitors since its opening in 1934 and is recognized for pioneering naturalistic animal exhibits and its commitment to wildlife conservation and education; and
WHEREAS, the Shedd Aquarium, located on Chicago’s Museum Campus, has served as a global leader in marine and freshwater conservation since 1930, housing over 30,000 animals and offering groundbreaking research, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts to protect aquatic species and ecosystems; and
WHEREAS, the Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in North America and one of the few free-admission zoos in the country, continues to provide equitable access to wildlife education, while leading world-class research in animal behavior and habitat preservation; and
WHEREAS, these institutions not only serve as treasured cultural landmarks and family destinations, but also provide vital STEM education programs for students, inspire the next generation of environmental stewards, and contribute significantly to the local and regional economy; and
WHEREAS, in celebration of National Zoo and Aquarium Month, it is fitting that the Cook County Board of Commissioners publicly commend these three esteemed institutions for their outstanding service to the community and to global biodiversity;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners, meeting this 12th day of June, 2025, does hereby proclaim June as National Zoo and Aquarium Month in Cook County and expresses sincere appreciation to the Brookfield Zoo, Shedd Aquarium, and Lincoln Park Zoo for their unwavering dedication to conservation, education, and the enrichment of public life;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to each institution as a symbol of Cook County’s gratitude and ongoing support.
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