CHICAGO – A plan introduced by State Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago) to allow for the designation of cultural districts in Illinois was signed into law today in an effort to help affirm the identity of communities in Illinois and preserve their distinct legacies.

“These designations are a way for our communities to proudly reflect the identity, contributions and history of the people who have helped build them,” Pacione-Zayas said. “I thank the governor for signing this into law and giving Illinois communities the chance to pursue community-driven economic opportunity initiatives that ensure our neighborhoods preserve their unique cultures and continue to build legacies.”

An initiative of the Puerto Rican Agenda, the new law allows the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to establish the necessary criteria and guidelines for designating such cultural districts. Five such districts can be designated per year, up to a total of 15. The process will be overseen by an advisory board, which the legislation specifies must be made up of a diverse group of board members along racial, ethnic, and geographic lines.

“As we move into economic recovery from the pandemic, it is imperative that we recognize and invest in the rich cultural heritage of Illinois’ diverse communities,” said House Assistant Majority Leader Delia Ramirez, who sponsored the measure in the House. “This initiative will allow DCEO to help communities foster and preserve their distinct cultural legacies.”

Senate Bill 1833 was signed on Friday. It takes effect Jan. 1, 2022.