We, the undersigned residents, business owners, and taxpayers of Illinois, respectfully ask for the repeal of House Joint Resolution 46 (HJR0046), sponsored by State Representative Lisa Davis.

The resolution does not officially rename Harlem Avenue, but it does direct IDOT to place honorary signs labeling the stretch from 79th Street to 111th Street as “Little Palestine Way.”

Even if symbolic, this still uses state property and public resources to highlight one specific cultural or political identity along a major road shared by several different communities. Many of us feel this is not the appropriate use of a state route.

Why We Are Opposed

1️⃣ A public road should represent everyone.

Harlem Avenue runs through some of the most diverse towns in the southwest suburbs. An honorary title tied to one nationality does not reflect the broader community that lives and works along this corridor.

2️⃣ State funds should go toward real needs.

Honorary signs require materials, labor, installation, and upkeep. At a time when roads and infrastructure need attention, residents believe these resources should go toward improvements that benefit all users.

3️⃣ This creates an unusual and concerning precedent.

If one group receives an honorary designation, others will understandably request the same. State highways could quickly become filled with competing symbolic names rather than remaining neutral public spaces. It is also unusual for an honorary designation to cover nearly four miles — far longer than the short stretches typically used in Cook County — which makes this feel more like a statement than a local honor.

4️⃣ The community was left out of the process.

Most residents and local municipalities were unaware of this proposal until after it moved forward. Any action involving a major state route and multiple towns should involve open discussion and local feedback.

5️⃣ It has already caused tension.

Given the sensitivity around international issues, many residents see this designation as taking a political position. Our roads should bring people together, not spark debate or division.

6️⃣ Recognition should follow a clear and fair process.

Illinois is home to many cultures, and all deserve equal treatment. There should be consistent guidelines for honorary naming — not one-off resolutions that bypass public input.

What We’re Asking For

That Representative Lisa Davis withdraw support for HJR0046.
That the Illinois General Assembly repeal the resolution.
That IDOT hold off on installing any signage linked to this designation.
That the state develop a fair, transparent process for future honorary naming requests.

A Message of Unity

Illinois is stronger when it focuses on what connects us.

Harlem Avenue should remain a shared public roadway — not a canvas for political or cultural labels.

✏️ Please sign and share this petition. Help us keep our state roads neutral, welcoming, and representative of everyone.