Copyright Joliet, IL Patch
HJR 0046 designates a section of Harlem Avenue as "Little Palestine Way," honoring the countless contributions of Palestinian-Americans. BRIDGEVIEW, IL — Legislation to designate a section of Harlem Avenue as “Little Palestine Way” passed the Illinois House last week, 76 to 33, honoring the economic and cultural contributions of Palestinian-Americans. The resolution now sits in the Illinois Senate, that is expected to vote on the measure as early as January. HJR 0046 designates Harlem Avenue, from 79th Street to 111th Street, as “Little Palestine Way,” in honor of the countless contributions of the Palestinian-American community, that passes through the towns of Bridgeview, Burbank, Chicago Ridge, Palos Hills and Worth. The resolution was spearheaded by Sonia Khalil and Amani Siam, along with Rep. Lisa Davis (32nd District). “My father, Samir Khalil, always believed that politics should serve the people, not divide them,” Khalil said. “Together with Miriam Zayed, they built the first Arab-American political organization to give our community a voice. That work taught me how important it is to build genuine relationships with leaders and neighbors alike. That’s how real change happens when leaders across the state support Little Palestinian Way.” Palestinian families, whose homes were destroyed and whose land was stolen and came to the United States as refugees, and faced discrimination. When no would hire them, they built businesses and created opportunities for their community, said Dr. Sabha Abour, who led the Chicago ceasefire resolution to a win, and is now leading the effort to rename Harlem Avenue. “Names have power. Honoring Harlem Avenue as Little Palestine Way isn’t just a street sign, it’s a declaration,” Abour said. “They transformed this strip into a cultural and economic hub. I hope every Palestinian who drives or walks these streets sees it and understand that despite what is said about us, we are here, we are seen, and we will always honor our roots.” The community has long sought a commemorative brown honorary street sign recognizing past and present generations of Palestinian-American leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, cultural organizers, women’s organizations, faith leaders, and families. The resolution ensures that Harlem Avenue remains a thriving hub of Palestinian-American life, identity, and contribution in Illinois. “We named this street Little Palestine Way so that the next generation never forgets where they come from, and so they know they have a duty to keep moving us forward,” said Siam, who along with Khalil pushed the resolution forward. “Our youth are the bridge between our history and our future, and this moment belongs to them.” Cook County is home to more than 18,000 Palestinians, the most of any county in the nation, and that's only according to the available Census data. Experts believe the actual Palestinian population in Chicago to be five times larger than what the Census says according to WBEZ data reporter Amy Qin. Because Harlem is a state highway (Route 43), the honorary street sign requires approval by the Illinois General Assembly. House Joint Resolution 0046 has been passed on to the state senate assignments committee, where it will be investigated and reviewed before it goes before the Illinois Senate for a full vote, anticipated to happen in January.
