On Thursday, December 7th, Cook County Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar partnered with the Office of the Cook County President and the Town of Cicero to host an Equity Town Hall. The event was held at the Cicero Community Center and brought representatives from three Cook County departments to discuss equity initiatives with local residents and community organizations. The town hall featured a panel discussion led by Commissioner Aguilar, as representatives from Cook County’s Digital, Transportation, and Justice Departments detailed their efforts to increase equity throughout Cook County. There was a specific emphasis on reaching Spanish-speaking populations, with the panel discussion and question and answer sections held in both English and Spanish. Cook County has made immense strides in increasing equity and positive outcomes for residents. During the townhall, panelists discussed multiple initiatives that Cook County has implemented.  The Source Grow Grant program funds $10,000 in grants to provide advising to historically excluded businesses—including those owned by people of color, women, veterans, LGBQT+ and persons with a disability. The county has given over $100 million in grants, through the Justice Advisory Council, to community organizations committed to reducing violence.

Photo Credit: Office of Cook County Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar