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Oak Park issues proclamations for Transgender Day of Visibility and Arab American Heritage Month
Summary
The Village Board adopted proclamations recognizing March 31 as International Transgender Day of Visibility and April 2026 as Arab American Heritage Month; community leaders thanked the board and noted upcoming events.
The Oak Park Village Board approved two proclamations at its March 24 meeting: one recognizing March 31, 2026, as International Transgender Day of Visibility and another designating April 2026 as Arab American Heritage Month in Oak Park.
President Vicki Skammen read the resolutions and the board approved both by voice vote. Sarah Corbin, president of PFLAG Oak Park, thanked the board and said the proclamation affirms visibility and safety for transgender and gender‑expansive people in the community.
"We are here today to be visible for individuals who may not yet feel safe or comfortable being visible," Corbin said. "Thank you to our community for prioritizing transgender rights and visibility."
Dima Ali and Faisal Al Lehi addressed the board on behalf of the Arab American community after the proclamation, expressing gratitude for formal recognition and pointing to local events planned for April. Ali said the recognition reinforced a message of belonging: "This is home and we belong," she said.
Trustees invited the proclamation guests for photographs and encouraged residents to participate in related community events and library programs scheduled for the month.
