HJ0057 100TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

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HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Generations of immigrants from every corner of the globe have helped build the economy of Illinois and thus have shaped the unique character of our nation; and

WHEREAS, Fourteen percent of our State's residents are immigrants, over 1.8 million people; and

WHEREAS, Immigrant entrepreneurs and small business owners create jobs, pay taxes, and play an important role in our State's economy; and

WHEREAS, Sara Lee, Kraft, McDonald's, The Boeing Company, and Baxter International are some of the most successful companies in Illinois, founded by immigrants or children of immigrants, and bring in more than $140 billion in annual revenue; and

WHEREAS, Immigrants have provided the State with unique social and cultural influence, fundamentally enriching the character of our State, and thus of our nation; and

WHEREAS, Immigrants have been tireless leaders not only in securing their own rights and access to economic, social, and political opportunity, but have also fought to create a fairer and more just society for all Americans; and

WHEREAS, Despite these countless contributions to our nation, the role of immigrants has frequently been and continues to be overlooked and undervalued; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDREDTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, THE SENATE CONCURRING HEREIN, that we declare June of 2017 to be "Immigrant Heritage Month" in the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we express our appreciation for all of the immigrants whose perseverance and resilience have helped make the United States of America a beacon for diversity, inclusivity, and opportunity.