SR1108 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR1108 LRB103 41168 LAW 74385 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of John Cyril Mitchell, who passed away on June 14, 2024; and

WHEREAS, John Mitchell was born to Joseph and Camilla Mitchell in Lanham, Maryland on March 14, 1967; he attended DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland, where he excelled academically and athletically in football and softball; he continued his studies at Prince George's Community College in Largo, Maryland; and

WHEREAS, John Mitchell was known as the esteemed chief of staff to Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr. at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition; he was first employed as executive assistant to Executive Director Nancy Ware of the Citizenship Education Fund; during this pivotal period in the mid-1990s, his exceptional talents caught the eye of Reverend Jackson, propelling him into a realm of greater influence and impact; and

WHEREAS, After relocating to the national headquarters in Chicago, John Mitchell embraced his role as assistant to National Field Director Gary Flowers with fervor and dedication; together with his esteemed colleagues, his work was pivotal in organizing countless direct-action campaigns, championing the cause of social, economic, and political fairness across the nation; his involvement in historic events, from voting rights marches in Jackson, Mississippi, San Francisco, California, and Atlanta, Georgia to commemorative pilgrimages honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., underscored his unwavering commitment to justice and equality; and

WHEREAS, John Mitchell's exemplary leadership and unparalleled work ethic garnered widespread acclaim as he ascended the ranks; transitioning to the roles of travel assistant and then scheduler for Reverend Jackson, he became the linchpin of organization and efficiency, ensuring that every aspect of Reverend Jackson's schedule aligned seamlessly with the overarching mission of the organization; his meticulous attention to detail, coupled with his ability to navigate complex logistical challenges, cemented his reputation as a trusted confidant and strategic advisor; and

WHEREAS, John Mitchell became chief of staff to Reverend Jackson in 2004; in this coveted position, he assumed a myriad of roles, including goalkeeper, operator, implementer, integrator, proxy, and advisor; his unwavering dedication and steadfast resolve made him the indispensable cornerstone of Reverend Jackson's inner circle, earning him the moniker of the Reverend Jackson's "Go-to-Guy" among political luminaries and community leaders alike; and

WHEREAS, John Mitchell was deeply committed to service; he made annual pilgrimages to Maryland to join his mother in organizing the largest volunteer tent for the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure; he also possessed boundless love for and devotion to children, whether serving as a mentor, counselor, or benefactor; and

WHEREAS, For his outstanding contributions, John Mitchell was named Rainbow PUSH Employee of the Year and a Chicago Defender Men of Excellence honoree in 2011; and

WHEREAS, John Mitchell was a visionary leader and a tireless advocate for justice who embodied the spirit of teamwork and perseverance; his indelible imprint on the fabric of our society serves as a testament to the transformative power of compassion, integrity, and unwavering dedication to the pursuit of equality and justice for all; and

WHEREAS, John Mitchell is survived by his wife, Corita; their children, John Baptiste and Camilla Elise Margaret; his siblings, Joseph and Karen Mitchell Jr., Jason and Christina Mitchell, and Dominick and Tori Mitchell; his nephews, Jacob, Calvin, and Bryce; a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and godchildren; and a global community of friends; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of John Cyril Mitchell and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of John Mitchell as an expression of our deepest sympathy.