CHICAGO, Ill. –State Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, D-Cicero, member of the Latino Caucus, released the following statement after the Berwyn City Council voted to make Berwyn a Welcoming City:

“First and foremost, I commend Aldermen Cesar Santoy and Rafael Avila for introducing the Welcoming Ordinance to the Berwyn City Council, and I applaud all of the city council members who voted to make the City of Berwyn a Welcoming City. The passing of this ordinance comes to show just how much can be accomplished when people come together and fight to protect the rights of all people, and I am so proud of all their hard work.

“This ordinance will not only protect immigrant families, but it will cultivate trust between the community and local law enforcement. Latinos have made tremendous gains in the last few decades; however, there is still more work to be done to address a number of issues still affecting our community. Bold leadership like the one shown by the City of Berwyn will be required to improve access to economic opportunity, health care and education.

“I believe in an inclusive and forward-thinking Illinois, and I continue to urge Gov. Rauner to protect all ethnic minorities who are here raising families and contributing to our state. As the governor of the state with the fifth largest Latino population, he cannot sit by idly while despicable acts of discrimination take place. In difficult times, we speak up and take action, and that is what leaders in suburban communities like Oak Park and Berwyn have done at the local level because of his lack of support. It is my sincere hope that the governor will work to reassure our community that immigrants are welcomed in Illinois.”