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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING PAUL J. KING JR. AS THE BLACK HISTORY MONTH INFLUENTIAL LEADER FOR THE COOK COUNTY’S 4TH DISTRICT
WHEREAS, Paul J. King Jr. has played a leading role in advocating for the inclusion of Black individuals in the construction trades, addressing both their underrepresentation and the systemic barriers faced by Black building contractors; and
WHEREAS, Paul J. King Jr.’s activism began in July 1969 when he, alongside 200 ministers, community organizers, and gang members, effectively halted operations at a significant construction site in the Chicago Loop. This act of "street activism" sparked similar initiatives nationwide and paved the way for strategic partnerships with political leaders, leading to policy reforms that have benefited minority workers and contractors in the construction sector; and
WHEREAS, Paul J. King Jr.’s endeavors have led to crucial legislative changes at both local and national levels, resulting in regulations and executive orders that promote economic justice for Black and minority communities within the construction industry; and
WHEREAS, Paul J. King Jr. has been instrumental in the United Builders Association and the National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC), advocating for business development, technical assistance, and the rights of thousands of minority-owned construction businesses; and
WHEREAS, as a successful entrepreneur, Paul J. King Jr. founded UBM, Inc., which under his leadership became one of the nation's top Black-owned general contracting firms. Paul J. King, Jr. continues to offer his expertise as a consultant and advisor within the industry; and
WHEREAS, Paul J. King Jr.’s advocacy for affirmative action and equal opportunities for minority-owned firms has established him as a national figure in business with his achievements recorded and papers archived at the Chicago History Museum; and
WHEREAS, Paul J. King Jr. is also a prolific writer with articles published in the Black Scholar, Black Enterprise, the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun-Times, and N’Digo; and
WHEREAS, Paul J. King Jr. has authored two books: Reflections on Affirmative Action in Construction and Black Brainworks 2014-2022, his academic journey also includes studies at the University of Chicago, the University of Illinois at Chicago, and Roosevelt University, and numerous awards acknowledging his impact; and
WHEREAS, Paul J. King Jr. was born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Paul lives with his wife, Loann; together they raised two sons: Paul III and Timothy; and
WHEREAS, Paul J. King, Jr. is affiliated with many professional and social organizations, however, he is most proud of being a member-for over 65 years-of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; and
WHEREAS, Paul J. King Jr.’s lifelong dedication to social justice, business leadership, and the advancement of Black people in the construction industry and beyond reflects a deep-seated commitment to bettering his community and serves as a testament to his enduring legacy; and
NOW BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners of Cook County, on behalf of the 5.2 million residents of Cook County, do hereby recognize the great contributions and legacy of Paul J. King Jr.; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Proclamation be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body and that an official copy of the same be tendered to Paul J. King Jr.
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