title
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE 7TH DAY OF APRIL AS LITTLE PALESTINE DAY IN COOK COUNTY
WHEREAS, April is National Arab American Heritage Month, which celebrates the history, culture, and people and the many contributions Arab Americans have made to our country; and
WHEREAS, in recognition of Arab families who migrated to southwest Cook County in the early 20th century, seeking a better life and the opportunity to build a supportive community; these families have contributed to the rich cultural landscape of Little Palestine, transforming it into a beacon of hope and resilience; and
WHEREAS, Little Palestine, located in the southwest region of Cook County, is home to the largest Palestinian community in the nation and the 4th largest Arab American population in the country, spanning a five-mile stretch from 79th and Harlem Avenue in Bridgeview to Harlem Avenue and College Drive in Palos Heights; and
WHEREAS, Little Palestine features over 200 Arab-owned businesses and community-serving institutions, including a community college, a hospital, three high schools, and over 20 organizations and institutions; and
WHEREAS, historic disinvestment in the Arab American community, coupled with being targeted for discrimination and hate crimes, threatens the sustainability and growth of this area, with over 70% of Arab-owned businesses in Little Palestine having under 10 employees and driving the economy in this region; and
WHEREAS, there has historically been no means to distinguish Arab American populations, economic activity, health, or any other indicators of Arab Americans on data registers at local, state, or national levels, recent efforts to include Arab Americans in data counts, achieved through decades of mobilization within Arab American communities, remain limited and often specific to certain locales. These omissions hinder the ability to document critical issues such as displacement and the impacts of COVID-19; and
WHEREAS, the Arab American Business and Professional Association, along with a coalition of organizations, is advocating for the official recognition of Little Palestine Day on the 7th day of April each calendar year, to help build cultural awareness, increase tourism, and boost economic vitality in this region; and
WHEREAS, the heart and soul of this community lie in its people, individuals who embody ambitions, creativity, and aspirations that surpass the ordinary; their contributions continue to reshape the narrative of the area, making it a testament to hope, resilience, and cultural pride;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that in conjunction with Arab American Heritage month, that the President and Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners proudly proclaim April 7th as Little Palestine Day in Cook County and that each year it shall serve as a celebration of the community’s rich heritage, promote solidarity among residents, and encourage support for local businesses and cultural initiatives; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution be distributed to relevant local officials, community organizations, and media outlets to raise awareness and foster a greater understanding of the significance of Little Palestine within the broader context of cultural diversity in Cook County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a formal event be organized annually on the 7th day of April to commemorate Little Palestine Day, showcasing the cultural contributions of the Arab American community and fostering engagement with the wider community; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that local schools and educational institutions be encouraged to incorporate lessons about the history and contributions of the Arab American community into their curricula, promoting inclusivity and understanding; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that funding and resources be sought to support initiatives aimed at revitalizing the economic landscape of Little Palestine, ensuring sustainable growth and development for future generations; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that his text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body and that a suitable copy be presented to Rush Darwish, President of the Arab American Business and Professional Association as a symbol of our respect and esteem.
end