Mayor Roudez Hosts Black History Month Awards Ceremony
Mayor Roudez Hosts Black History Month Awards Ceremony (University Park, IL) – This evening University Park Mayor Joseph E. Roudez honored special guests for their contributions to the African American Community.
Among the honorees were Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., Dorothy Jones, Dr. Cheryl Green, Pastor Moses Herring Sr., Pastor Reginald Williams Jr. and Rev. Shawn Aldridge.
The ceremony kicked off honoring guests with Lifetime Achievement rewards. First to receive one was Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. who was unable to attend due to his battle with Parkinson’s disease, however Jesse Jackson Jr. confirmed his father’s rehabilitation is going well and he is expected to return home next Tuesday. “My father would want me to tell you tonight that the struggle for justice continues; That the struggle for equality continues. We must demand from the state of Illinois, and from our federal officials all of the benefits that are due, for our people have struggled long and hard. If he were here he would tell you to keep hope alive and how honored he would be to receive this award.”
The second guest to receive an award was University Park Village Clerk Dorothy Jones. Jones has been a resident of the village since 1972. She holds the record of the longest serving employee, now serving her 5th elected term as Village Clerk. “What I do is just part of who I am. I don’t do it for recognition or acolytes but simply to be of service,” she said. She goes on mentioning how important it is to uplift each other. Jones advised each resident could better serve the community with small gestures like smiling, lending a hand or just saying hello.
As the ceremony continued Dr. Cheryl Green was given the first Community Service Award, followed by Dr. Williams, Pastor Herring and Rev. Aldridge. Each were commended on their leadership and contributions to the community. As the mayor highlighted, their list of achievements continue to grow, even during the pandemic.
Attorney Nina Fain concluded the ceremony acknowledging the sponsorship of Mielle Organics Laboratories who offered to the awardees $1000 in scholarship funds for a non-profit of their choice. Jesse Jackson Jr. mentioned they would be donating these funds back to the community of University Park.
Video of the celebration is below:
Mayor Roudez Hosts Black History Month Awards Ceremony
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