Cook County is calling out to residents to chime in on how this big-picture problem affects their lives on the ground. Local participation is a cornerstone of the County’s planned environmental justice policy. This isn't just about making new rules; it's about reshaping the way the government listens to its people.
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle emphasizes how critical this undertaking is. “Establishing an environmental justice policy is a priority for my administration and it will serve as an instrument for fairness, helping us build vibrant, sustainable and inclusive communities," she mentioned in a recent press release. The hope? To lead with a policy that's steeped in compassion and equity. And the clock’s ticking—the survey closes at midnight on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.
But why now? If history’s taught us anything, it's that communities of color and those without deep pockets bear the brunt of environmental harm. With a nod to the intersection of race, wealth, and environmental outcomes, the county’s bid to weave environmental fairness into its programs feels overdue.
Commissioner and Environment and Sustainability Committee Chair Bridget Degnen get it, stating, "Input and engagement from our community are vital to informing the work of DES and the Cook County Board." She's spearheading this mission not only as a politician but as an environmental engineer who recognizes the many layers of community problem-solving. Describing how this isn't just a box-ticking exercise, Degnen told the press, “Residents know best how to improve their community and how the government can better serve them.”
The survey is just a starting point. To ensure diverse voices shape the policy, Cook County teamed up with an Environmental Justice Community Advisory Committee, comprised of leaders who hail from various communities and have a myriad of experiences. It's a recognition that policies should be as eclectic as the very people they're meant to protect. And this isn't happening in a vacuum—it’s supported by the Center for Neighborhood Technology and stems from a direct call to action from the Cook County COVID-19 Response Plan and the Cook County Board Resolution 23-1092.
For those looking to have their say, mark your calendars. A draft policy is expected in early 2025, with town hall meetings and a second survey lined up to let residents weigh in on the fine print. Cook County appears committed to writing an environmental justice policy chapter that isn’t just ink on paper, but a narrative crafted by those who know their community’s needs firsthand.
