SR0750 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0750 LRB104 21664 RMO 37202 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate wish to commend Dr. Jo Ann Roberts for her instrumental role in advancing the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Law; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr. dedicated his life to advancing civil rights, social justice, and civic engagement, with a steadfast belief that young people must be educated, empowered, and included in the democratic process; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Roberts worked alongside Rev. Jackson for more than fifty years, standing with him in service, advocacy, and leadership and remaining deeply committed to the principles of justice, equity, and democratic participation; and

WHEREAS, Through decades of unwavering dedication, Dr. Roberts has played a critical role in preserving and advancing Rev. Jackson's vision, ensuring that his lifelong commitment to youth empowerment and civic engagement continues to thrive; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Roberts formed a coalition comprised of Devorah Crable of Know Your Power: Vote, Letina Brady Pettis of Get Out the Vote 4 Teens, Betty Magness of the Rainbow Push Coalition, and Frederique Desrosiers, policy and advocacy director at Chicago Votes; the coalition then secured a sponsor for the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Law; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Roberts was instrumental in advancing the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Law, helping to move this historic legislation forward and ensuring that young people are intentionally seated at the table where decisions are made; and

WHEREAS, This law reflects Rev. Jackson's belief that democracy is strengthened when youth voices are heard, respected, and prepared to participate fully in the democratic process; and

WHEREAS, Through her leadership, Dr. Roberts has honored Rev. Jackson's wishes by championing civic education, voter engagement, and youth leadership development, ensuring that teens learn the democratic process, understand the power of their voices, and recognize the importance of voting; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we commend Dr. Jo Ann Roberts for her extraordinary leadership, lifelong service, and instrumental role in advancing the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. Young Voter Empowerment Law by empowering youth, amplifying their voices, and preparing the next generation to lead through informed civic participation; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Dr. Roberts as an expression of our esteem and respect.