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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
COMMEMORATING THE 250th ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
WHEREAS, 7/4/2026, marks the 250th Anniversary, or Semiquincentennial, of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia in 1776, signifying the founding of the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, the Declaration of Independence proclaimed timeless principles of profound significance to the national heritage of the United States, including that all are created equal and endowed with certain inalienable rights, including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, and that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed; and
WHEREAS, the founding of the United States established the principle of federalism, emphasizing a decentralized system of government wherein powers are divided between national, state and local governments, fostering liberty, accountability and responsiveness to communities; and
WHEREAS, this decentralized governance model has allowed for innovation, diverse policy approaches and stronger accountability to citizens, ensuring that government remains close to and reflective of the people it serves; and
WHEREAS, the founding of the United States initiated a journey toward forming a more perfect Union, marked by historic achievements, struggles and progress in realizing the Nation’s founding ideals for all its citizens; and
WHEREAS, throughout the history of the United States, members of the Armed Forces have defended the freedoms and democratic principles established by the Nation’s founders, and the sacrifices of servicemembers, veterans and military families have preserved the liberties celebrated on Independence Day; and
WHEREAS, the State of Illinois has played a significant role in the history of the United States as the Land of Lincoln, contributing to the Nation’s development through leadership, industry, agriculture, transportation, military service and civic engagement; and
WHEREAS, Cook County, as the most populous county in the State of Illinois and home to a diverse population representing communities from across the Nation and the world, has contributed significantly to the economic, cultural, civic and democratic development of the United States; and
WHEREAS, the Semiquincentennial offers a unique opportunity for the residents of Cook County to reflect upon our shared history, honor the diverse contributions of all Americans, celebrate our heritage of liberty and look forward to the future we strive to create for subsequent generations; and
WHEREAS, commemorative activities throughout Cook County will provide educational opportunities, foster civic engagement, encourage community participation and strengthen appreciation for the history, principles, and foundational ideals upon which both the Nation and our local communities were built; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby recognize and commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America on July 4, 2026; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners encourages all residents, communities, educational institutions, civic organizations, businesses and governmental entities throughout Cook County to participate in commemorative events and activities that reflect on our history, celebrate our achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of liberty, equality, self-government and civic responsibility; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners encourages educational institutions throughout Cook County to promote civics education and public understanding of American history, ensuring that future generations appreciate the importance of active civic participation, democratic institutions and the enduring principles upon which the United States was founded.
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