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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING THE CITY OF CHICAGO ON RECEIVING A 4-STAR CERTIFIED WELCOMING CITY DESIGNATION
WHEREAS, Cook County is proud to be a diverse, inclusive, and compassionate county that values the dignity, safety, and well-being of all its residents, regardless of where they were born or their immigration status; and
WHEREAS, the City of Chicago is a cultural hub shaped by generations of immigrants and refugees who have contributed immensely to our communities; and
WHEREAS, the City of Chicago continues to reaffirm its commitment to protecting human rights and creating a sense of belonging through legislative protections and community support systems; and
WHEREAS, the City of Chicago, along with 33 cities across the country, has sought designation as a "Welcoming City" through Welcoming America; and
WHEREAS, Welcoming America is a nonprofit organization that works with local government to promote immigrant inclusion and belonging; and
WHEREAS, in December 2025, Welcoming America conducted a review and audit of the City of Chicago’s welcoming work in partnership with the City of Chicago’s Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights (IMRR) leadership. Cook County Commissioner Josina Morita was honored to be a part of this review process; and
WHEREAS, on June 24, 2026 the City of Chicago was recognized as a 4-Star Certified Welcoming City by Welcoming America, reflecting its commitment to nationally recognized standards for immigrant inclusion, equitable access, civic participation, connected communities, safe communities, education, economic development, and government leadership; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Cook County Board does hereby congratulate the City of Chicago on its well-deserved Welcoming City designation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights.
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