title
PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION HONORING THE WESTSIDE ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ALLIANCE (WEJA) IN RECOGNITION OF EARTH MONTH AND EARTH DAY 2026
WHEREAS, the month of April is nationally recognized as Earth Month, culminating in the annual observance of Earth Day, which calls upon communities, governments, and organizations to protect the environment, promote sustainability, and advance environmental justice for present and future generations; and
WHEREAS, environmental justice is a matter of public health, equity, and community resilience, recognizing that historically underserved communities-particularly communities of color-have too often borne the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards, pollution, disinvestment, and limited access to green space, clean air, and safe infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the Westside Environmental Justice Alliance (WEJA) was established to confront these inequities by mobilizing residents across Chicago's West Side to advocate for cleaner environments, healthier neighborhoods, and equitable environmental policies that promote sustainability and community well-being; and
WHEREAS, the mission of WEJA reflects a community-centered approach to environmental leadership-engaging residents, youth, families, and neighborhood stakeholders in education, organizing, and advocacy efforts that advance environmental awareness, climate resilience, and neighborhood revitalization across the 1st District of Cook County; and
WHEREAS, the work of WEJA has empowered residents to participate in community clean-up initiatives, environmental education programs, and grassroots advocacy campaigns that promote environmental stewardship, responsible development, and sustainable community planning in historically underserved communities; and
WHEREAS, the leadership and vision of Crystal E. Gardner, founder of the Westside Environmental Justice Alliance, have been instrumental in advancing environmental justice efforts throughout Chicago's West Si...
Click here for full text