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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION PLEDGING TO JOIN COOK COUNTY TO UNITE AGAINST HATE
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves of Cook County (the “Forest Preserves”) is dedicated to ensuring that all Cook County residents and visitors can avail themselves of the physical, mental, and emotional benefits that come from spending time in nature and therefore strives to ensure that everyone feels welcome, and we pledge to join Cook County United Against Hate, a diverse coalition of individuals and municipal, nonprofit, faith, and academic organizations that unite against hate; and
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves’ 2020 Moving Toward Racial Equity and 2022 Amplifying Diversity and Inclusion position papers outline a set of principles and recommendations to meet the Forest Preserves’ nature conservation mission in the most equitable way; and
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves works together with its Conservation & Policy Council and its partners to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that affirms values of equity and belonging for all; and
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves is one of the largest public conservation districts in the country and protects a diverse array of ecosystems that shelter thousands of plants and animals and provide the residents of Cook County and its visitors with opportunities to explore and experience nature; and
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves recognizes that in order for these public lands to thrive, they must be treasured by Cook County residents so that people will advocate and care for these lands for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves welcomes everyone with their unique experiences and characteristics, and we believe that we are stronger when we respect, accept and learn from our similarities and differences; and
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves values diversity in all aspects of our work and are committed to enhancing our cultural competency in order to best serve and engage Cook County residents and visitors in caring for the health and enjoyment of our natural and cultural heritage; and
WHEREAS, the Forest Preserves affirms the rights and the value of our staff, partners, volunteers, visitors and users of the Forest Preserves, regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, class, or other backgrounds.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Forest Preserves of Cook County Board of Commissioners hereby pledges to support Cook County United Against Hate, to unite against prejudice, and to continue to promote equity at every level within the Forest Preserves of Cook County.
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