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1 SENATE RESOLUTION
2 WHEREAS, In the early 20th century, many Arab families
3 began migrating to southwestern Cook County seeking a better
4 life and the opportunity to build a supportive community in
5 the United States; these families have contributed to the rich
6 cultural landscape of Little Palestine, transforming it into a
7 beacon of hope and resilience; and
8 WHEREAS, Little Palestine, located in the southwestern
9 region of Cook County, is home to the largest Palestinian
10 community in the nation and the fourth largest Arab American
11 population in the country, spanning a five-mile stretch from
12 79th and Harlem Avenue in Bridgeview to Harlem Avenue and
13 College Drive in Palos Heights; and
14 WHEREAS, Little Palestine features over 200 Arab-owned
15 businesses and community-serving institutions, including a
16 community college, a hospital, three high schools, and more
17 than 20 organizations and institutions; and
18 WHEREAS, The Arab American Business and Professional
19 Association, along with a coalition of organizations, is
20 advocating for the official recognition of Little Palestine
21 Day on the 7th day of April each year to help build cultural
22 awareness, increase tourism, and boost economic vitality in
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1 this region; and
2 WHEREAS, Recognition of Little Palestine Day will help
3 serve as a celebration of the community's rich heritage,
4 promote solidarity among residents, and encourage support for
5 local businesses and cultural initiatives; and
6 WHEREAS, The heart and soul of the Arab community lies in
7 its people, individuals who embody ambitions, creativity, and
8 aspirations that surpass the ordinary; their contributions
9 continue to reshape the narrative of the area, making it a
10 testament to hope, resilience, and cultural pride; therefore,
11 be it
12 RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL
13 ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare April 7,
14 2025 as "Little Palestine Day" in the State of Illinois; and be
15 it further
16 RESOLVED, That we urge Illinoisans to celebrate Little
17 Palestine Day by supporting businesses and cultural
18 initiatives in Little Palestine and attending or hosting
19 events showcasing the contributions of the Arab American
20 community to the United States; and be it further
21 RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be
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1 provided to the Arab American Business and Professional
2 Association as a symbol of our respect and esteem.
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