By Cesar Almeida
Here’s a legislative win that folks in Illinois and beyond can learn from, get excited about, and perhaps even replicate. On Nov. 8, 2022, Cook County Illinois voters sparked a major win for their Forest Preserves, approving an additional $40 million in annual funding for these vital public lands. This money will be used to manage and restore the 70,000 acres of prairies, forests, wetlands, rivers and streams; create local jobs; and improve the environment by providing clean air, water, and habitat for people and wildlife.
The success of this referendum would not have been possible without the efforts of numerous organizations, coalitions, and individuals who came out to vote—and to educate and encourage others to do so. Some of these groups include the Illinois Environmental Council, Faith in Place, Open Lands, Friends of the Forest Preserves, and the Eco-Womanist Institute.
Benjamin Cox, the executive director of Friends of the Forest Preserves, emphasized the importance of this win in an interview with the One Earth Film Festival. "This referendum is a huge victory for our community and for the environment," he said. "Not only will it help us protect and expand our beautiful forests, but it will also create local jobs and improve the overall quality of life in Cook County."
Benjamin Cox, Executive Director of Friends of the Forest Preserves
Cox also emphasized the power of voting as a way to make a difference on important issues such as climate change. "By coming out to vote, we were able to make our voices heard and bring about real change for the better," he said. "This is a great reminder of the importance of participating in our democracy and making our voices heard at the ballot box."
This victory shows the power of voting and how it can be used to make a difference in the fight against climate change. The Cook County Forest Preserves will now have the resources to take meaningful action to protect and preserve our forests, which are vital to the health of our planet.
So, let this be a reminder to get loud and make your voice heard. No matter where you live, take time now to educate yourself for future election cycles—about candidates, platforms, policies, and proposals that support your environmental mission. Voting is an effective way to advocate for climate issues. Together, we can make a real impact and create a better world for all.