HR0278 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0278 LRB104 13269 MST 25485 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the House of Representatives wish to commend the organizers, volunteers, vendors, and participants of the South Main Mercado for their dedication, vision, and contributions to the City of Rockford and the State of Illinois; and

WHEREAS, The South Main Mercado, held annually in the City of Rockford, exemplifies the spirit of community engagement by celebrating Latino heritage, uplifting local entrepreneurs, and promoting the economic and cultural vibrancy of the South Main corridor; and

WHEREAS, Since its inception in 2023, the South Main Mercado has grown rapidly, attracting thousands of attendees, empowering minority-owned businesses, and revitalizing a historically significant area of Rockford through partnerships with the Ethnic Heritage Museum, Comprehensive Community Solutions, SWIFTT, and numerous community advocates; and

WHEREAS, The South Main Mercado's remarkable success was recognized statewide, earning the 2024 Illinois Lieutenant Governor Award for Revitalization - Promotion Approach, an acknowledgment of its transformative impact and exemplary community leadership; and

WHEREAS, The South Main Mercado not only provides a platform for entrepreneurship and artistic expression but also strengthens the social fabric of the Rockford region, encouraging future generations to take pride in their culture, history, and neighborhood development; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we commend the organizers, volunteers, vendors, and participants of the South Main Mercado for their dedication, vision, and contributions to the City of Rockford and the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the organizing committee of the South Main Mercado as a token of our esteem and recognition.