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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING DR. JO ANN ROBERTS AND REV. JESSE L. JACKSON SR. YOUTH VOTER EMPOWERMENT COALITION
WHEREAS, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr. dedicated his life to advancing civil rights, social justice, and civic engagement, holding a steadfast belief that young people must be educated, empowered, and included in the democratic process; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Jo Ann Roberts has worked alongside Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr. for more than fifty years, standing with him in service, advocacy, and leadership, while remaining deeply committed to the principles of justice, equity, and democratic participation; and
WHEREAS, through decades of unwavering dedication, Dr. Jo Ann Roberts has played a critical role in preserving and advancing Reverend Jackson’s vision, ensuring that his lifelong commitment to youth empowerment and civic engagement continues to thrive; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Jo Ann Roberts formed a coalition comprised of Devorah Crable of Know Your Vote, Letina Brady Pettis of Get Out the Vote 4 Teens, Betty Magness of Rainbow PUSH, and Frederique Desrosiers, Policy and Advocacy Director of Chicago Votes, whose collective advocacy helped advance legislation centered on youth civic participation; and
WHEREAS, this coalition met with Senator Robert Peters, and through that engagement, he agreed to sponsor the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Law, marking a significant step forward in expanding civic education and voter engagement opportunities for young people; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Jo Ann Roberts was instrumental in advancing the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Law, helping to move this historic legislation forward and ensuring that young people are intentionally seated at the table where decisions are made; and
WHEREAS, this law reflects Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr.’s enduring belief that democracy is strengthened when youth voices are heard, respected, and prepared to participate fully in the democratic process; and
WHEREAS, through her leadership, Dr. Jo Ann Roberts has honored Reverend Jackson’s wishes by championing civic education, voter engagement, and youth leadership development, ensuring that teens learn the democratic process, understand the power of their voices, and recognize the importance of voting; and
WHEREAS, the work of Dr. Jo Ann Roberts and this coalition stand as a powerful example of intergenerational leadership, community advocacy, and the ongoing pursuit of a more just and participatory democracy;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners do hereby recognize and honor Dr. Jo Ann Roberts for her extraordinary leadership, lifelong service, and instrumental role in advancing the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Law; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Dr. Jo Ann Roberts is commended for keeping Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr.’s vision alive by empowering youth, amplifying their voices, and preparing the next generation to lead through informed civic participation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners also recognizes the contributions of coalition members Devorah Crable, Letina Brady Pettis, Betty Magness, and Frederique Desrosiers for their advocacy and partnership in helping bring this important legislation to life; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Dr. Jo Ann Roberts as a symbol of deep appreciation and recognition for her lasting impact on democracy, youth empowerment, and social justice.
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