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Authorizing in Support of Immigrant Rights, Human Dignity, and Fair Reform in Kane County, Illinois
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WHEREAS, Kane County, Illinois, is home to a rich and diverse population whose residents-regardless of national origin or language-contribute to the county’s economic strength, cultural vibrancy, and civic life; and
WHEREAS, immigrants and their families have helped build and sustain Kane County’s economy, schools, and neighborhoods, making essential contributions to business, public service, and community life; and
WHEREAS, the Kane County Board affirms that all people, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to dignity, due process, and equal protection under the United States Constitution; and
WHEREAS, reports and community accounts have documented aggressive Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions in Illinois communities-including near schools and workplaces-creating fear and trauma among residents; and
WHEREAS, such actions erode public trust, discourage residents from reporting crimes or accessing services, and disproportionately target individuals based on race, ethnicity, or perceived immigration status; and
WHEREAS, according to data from the U.S Department of Homeland Security, a majority of individuals currently held in ICE detention have no criminal convictions, demonstrating that many detained are workers and community members rather than public safety threats; and
WHEREAS, federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, have acknowledged the existence of racial profiling in immigration enforcement, and documented cases in Illinois show that even U.S. citizens have been wrongfully detained under such operations; and
WHEREAS, fear-based policies, racial profiling, and the denial of due process undermine public safety and the wellbeing of families across Kane County; and
WHEREAS, local governments play a critical role in ensuring equitable access to services and in fostering trust through fair, inclusive, and culturally responsive governance; and
WHEREAS, the Kane County Board supports collaborative work with local partners, state leaders, and the federal government to promote humane and comprehensive immigration reform consistent with American values of justice, compassion, and opportunity.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Kane County Board reaffirms its commitment to upholding the rights, dignity, and safety of all residents-regardless of immigration status-and opposes discrimination, racial profiling, and any violation of constitutional protections. All County departments and offices shall continue to provide services in a fair, equitable, and culturally responsive manner to all residents.
The Kane County Board calls upon the State of Illinois and the Federal Government to:
- Enact humane, comprehensive immigration reforms that respect due process, keep families together, and recognize the essential contributions of immigrants; and
- Prohibit immigration enforcement in sensitive locations such as schools, places of worship, and community centers; and
- Increase transparency and accountability in immigration enforcement practices; and
- Ensure no person is detained or deported based on racial or ethnic profiling.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution shall be transmitted to the Illinois General Assembly, the Governor of Illinois, and the Kane County Congressional delegation as a statement of Kane County’s value and its commitment to justice, inclusion, and human rights for all.
Passed by the Kane County Board on November 10, 2025.
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John A. Cunningham, MBA, JD, JD Corinne M. Pierog MA, MBA
Clerk, County Board Chairman, County Board
Kane County, Illinois Kane County, Illinois
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