Rep. Harper Proposes Official Holiday to Honor President Obama
SPRINGFIELD, IL – In an effort to commemorate President Barack Obama’s historic accomplishments as President of the United States, State Rep. Sonya Harper ( D-Chicago) is proposing a state holiday in his name. The proposed holiday date is the former president’s birthday, August 4th.
“Barack Obama accomplished major goals he set out to do eight years ago when he was inaugurated president in 2009, and I want us to remember those accomplishments,” said Harper. “His presidency has opened more doors for minorities across the country and hopefully inspired them to engage in their local communities more than ever before. His message of ‘Yes we can’ is a tribute to anyone who truly believes they can create positive change for their own community.”
Harper is the chief sponsor of House Bill 503, which designates August 4th as a state holiday for Illinois. The bill would amend the Commemorative Dates Act and have the day be one for the state to hold appropriate ceremonies to commemorate Barack Obama. Harper wants the holiday to serve as a call to action for those who are ready to step forth and be active in their own community.
“Future generations who may not have witnessed his presidency should understand what he fought for his time in office,” said Harper. “He even did great work for the state of Illinois, and I want to do my part in preserving that history. With that in mind, I would encourage people to engage with their communities to continue the legacy that he left.”
Harper represents the 6th District which includes all or portions of Armour Square, Bridgeport, Chicago Lawn, Englewood, Gage Park, Back of the Yards, Canaryville, New City, West Englewood, and Marquette Park in the city of Chicago.
