Human Relations Commission outlines outreach plan to implement Skokie ordinance protecting immigrant access to services

The Human Relations Commission on Sept. 2 told the Skokie Village Board it has begun outreach and education to implement the village’s human relations ordinance, focusing on clear information for residents and partnerships with schools and community organizations. The work matters because commissioners said recent events have raised uncertainty among residents, and the ordinance clarifies that Skokie will not participate in immigration enforcement except as required by federal law or a valid criminal warrant. Human Relations Commission chair Maria Monastera Buena Bueno described meetings with Mayor Tennis and staff and said the Commission is preparing plain-language flyers and brochures translated into Skokie’s most widely spoken languages. “This ordinance reflects Skokie’s long standing values, ensuring that all people, regardless of immigration status, have equal access to village services and protections,” she said. The commission plans a Sept. 11 meeting with school districts to coordinate information for students, families and school staff; outreach to Oakton College, day cares, health centers and workplaces; and community programming such as a screening of the film Not In Our Town with a follow-up panel. Commissioner outreach included representatives from Sanctuary Niles Township. Trustees praised the pace of work and the breadth of partners. Trustee Robinson said the work “draws a line in the sand about where we are, who we are as a community.” Trustee Schechter, one of the board liaisons to the commission, said she was “really glad to be supportive” and emphasized that the commission’s actions should be substantive not performative. The commission will finalize and translate outreach materials, distribute them through community partners, and continue programming to reassure residents and families. No legal or budget changes were proposed at the meeting.