Chicago – May 01, 2025
The 2025 legislative agenda focuses on promoting equity, inclusivity, and justice for diverse communities across Illinois. One top priority is securing $4 million for implementing inclusive K-12 history education. While Illinois has expanded history curriculum mandates, the State Board of Education lacks resources for effective rollout. This funding would support teacher training and fully realize the Inclusive American History Commission’s 2022 recommendations.
Another initiative advocates for schools to better recognize diverse religious and cultural observances. HB 2651 / SB 1616 would require the State Board of Education to create a comprehensive list of holidays that may affect student attendance or participation, ensuring fair treatment for all students.
Additionally, the coalition calls for raising the Immigrant Services Line Item (ISLI) budget to $40 million to meet growing demands for services like direct financial assistance, citizenship application aid, English classes, and DACA fee waivers.
The Access to Justice program, aiding immigrants with legal representation and immigration services, is seeking a $50 million boost to expand its reach to vulnerable groups.
The coalition also backs the Wadee Resolution, honoring the life of six-year-old Wadee AlFayoumi, tragically killed in a hate crime. The resolution condemns anti-Palestinian hate and affirms the right of all Illinois residents to live safely and with dignity.
Another important proposal is SB 2642, which allocates funds for training, vendor certification, and infrastructure to implement Illinois’ groundbreaking law mandating halal, kosher, and plant-based meals in public institutions.
Endorsed legislation includes repealing the 1997 Rent Control Preemption Act to address the housing affordability crisis. The Affordable Housing Protection Act would enable local governments to stabilize rent, prevent displacement, and offer balanced legal protections for tenants and landlords alike.
Recently, coalition members met with Senator Laura Ellman to discuss Muslim community needs around halal food provisions and holiday observances in public facilities.
