Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar Hosts 16th District Equity Town Hall (Chicago, IL) — 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.

“When we think of equity, we must take a 360 degree approach. Equity affects outcomes for individuals and the communities they live in. We know that many marginalized communities have not had the opportunities that other communities have had. We must be deliberate, thinking about how we can increase opportunities for those historically shut out,” said Commissioner Aguilar. “As a county commissioner, everything I do needs to have equity centered. We must go above and beyond to ensure that all communities have access to the programs and resources they need to be successful.”

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.

“The Office of the Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle hosted a series of community town halls to share updates on the Cook County Equity Fund which was created to undo historical disinvestments in communities of color. Since we center equity in all of this work, last night’s town hall took place at the Cicero Community Center, in partnership with Comm. Frank J. Aguilar, and was hosted in Spanish. We will continue to be intentional about our inclusivity as we move the Equity Fund work forward,” said Angela K. Waller, Director of External Affairs, Office of the President, Cook County Government.

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. Collaboration with federal and state agencies have provided over $1 billion in digital infrastructure funding, bringing high speed internet and tech literacy to residents who have previously lacked these resources.

These programs are targeted, using evidence to close gaps in opportunities and outcomes for residents and the communities they live in. Commissioner Aguilar understands this mission is not done, and will continue to work with his colleagues on the County Board to reduce the gap in health, justice, digital, and economic outcomes for the communities he serves.

Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar Hosts 16th District Equity Town Hall

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