Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller joined community leaders, elected officials, and advocates on Tuesday at the Chicago Urban League to celebrate the launch of Civility Month in Illinois and to present an official copy of the Cook County Resolution declaring August as Civility Month in Cook County.
The event highlighted a statewide movement to promote respectful dialogue, emotional intelligence, and violence prevention through civility. Commissioner Miller acknowledged Reverend Anthony Williams, whose years of advocacy helped make the designation a reality, Dr. Killie Martin, Executive Director of South Suburban College.
Last month, Commissioner Miller sponsored the Cook County resolution, which was adopted unanimously by the Cook County Board of Commissioners. The resolution recognizes civility as a critical component of community safety, civic engagement, and violence prevention while encouraging residents, schools, businesses, faith communities, and local governments to observe the month through educational programming and community initiatives.
“Violence prevention begins long before tragedy occurs,” said Commissioner Miller. “It begins with how we treat one another—with respect, empathy, and a willingness to listen, even when we disagree. I was proud to sponsor Cook County’s first Civility Month resolution because stronger relationships create stronger communities. Civility is not about agreeing on everything; it’s about recognizing each other’s humanity and working together for the common good.”
During the event, Commissioner Miller formally presented an official copy of the Cook County resolution honoring Reverend Anthony Williams for his visionary leadership in advancing civility throughout Illinois and recognizing South Suburban College, under the leadership of Dr. Lynette Stokes, for its commitment to promoting civic engagement, inclusion, and respectful dialogue across the Southland.
Reverend Williams’ advocacy stems from a deeply personal mission to reduce violence and strengthen communities through healing, understanding, and constructive dialogue. His efforts have helped establish civility as an essential part of Illinois’ broader public health approach to violence prevention.
“As we observe Civility Month, I encourage every resident to participate,” Commissioner Miller added. “Whether it’s mentoring a young person, volunteering in your neighborhood, listening with an open mind, or simply showing kindness to someone with a different perspective, each of us has a role to play in creating communities where respect replaces hostility, understanding overcomes division, and hope triumphs over fear and violence.”
Commissioner Miller will continue the celebration of Civility Month this Sunday, August 9, by presenting the official Cook County Civility Month Resolution during the Neighborhood Civility Destroys the Violence Community Picnic, hosted by the Saginaw Block Club and Windsor Park Lutheran Church.
For additional information, please contact the Office of Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller at: Samuel.Stogsdill@cookcountyil.gov or 773-848-0501.
