IL SR0801

Recognizes the Black and African-American communities of Illinois's 7th Senate District for their historical achievements, culture, and contributions to the region's vibrancy.

Acknowledges Graceland Cemetery as the resting place of 29 Underground Railroad leaders and highlights the Winthrop Family Garden, which honors African-American families who established a residential community along Winthrop Avenue beginning in 1910.

Honors Sen. Mike Simmons as the first Black representative of the far north side's 7th District and notes his family was among the first Black families to integrate the Lincoln Square neighborhood in the early 1980s.

Celebrates the district's diverse Black diaspora communities, including West African, Ethiopian, Eritrean, Caribbean, and other immigrant populations who established thriving family-owned businesses along Broadway, Clark Street, and Howard Avenue.

Recognizes individual leaders including Ebony DeBerry (ONE Northside founder), Jackie Taylor (Black Ensemble Theater founder, established 1976), and Dr. Ana Vicky Castillo (Afro Latino Historical Society and African Diaspora Museum founder) for their community-building work.