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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE VICTIMS OF THE ATTACK ON EMANUEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
WHEREAS, on June 17, 2015, a horrific mass shooting took place during a bible study session at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, where 9 innocent lives were taken; and
WHEREAS, people worldwide mourn the loss of those taken that night: State Senator Rev. Clementa Pinckney, Rev. DePayne Middleton-Doctor, Rev. Daniel Simmons Sr., Rev. Sharonda Singleton, Cynthia Hurd, Susie Jackson, Ethel Lance, Tywanza Sanders, and Myra Thomson; and
WHEREAS, "Mother Emanuel" is one of the oldest congregations in the AME church. Its roots date back to 1816 when its original membership was organized by Rev. Morris Brown. In 1834 the church was rebuilt after being burned to the ground amid suspicion of a planned slave revolt; and
WHEREAS, we offer condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and to the staff and congregation of "Mother Emanuel"; and
WHEREAS, we must remain steadfast in our efforts to use the light of love and tolerance to drive out the darkness caused by hatred, bigotry, and violence; and
WHEREAS, we support efforts from lawmakers and community towards healing from this terrible attack; and
WHEREAS, we have come together as a community to stand behind Charleston and all victims of hatred and bigotry, we offer prayers and support.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and the Cook County Board of Commissioners, on behalf of the Cook County residents, do hereby honor the people who lost their lives in the on June 17, 2015, in Emanuel African Methodist Church in Charleston, South Carolina.
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