United Nations Association Awards Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition with UN Global Goals Award

Pritzker: “Illinois would not boast the most equitable climate law in the nation without ICJC’s efforts”

CHICAGO – This evening, the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition (ICJC) will receive the Global Goals Award at the United Nations Day Celebration, a prestigious honor announced by the United Nations Association-Greater Chicago Chapter (UNA-Chicago). The virtual event takes place on Wednesday, October 20 at 6:00pm.

The award recognizes more than three years of grassroots organizing and policy leadership by ICJC to help pass the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which Governor JB Pritzker signed into law last month. CEJA is a bold, nation-leading law that will put Illinois on a path to a 100% clean energy future, protect public health from pollution, provide a just transition for communities historically dependent on dirty fossil fuels, enact tough utility accountability measures, and create jobs and wealth in Illinois’ Black and Brown communities.

As part of the United Nations 2030 Agenda, in September 2015 world leaders adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs, listed here) to serve as guideposts to end all forms of poverty, fight inequalities, tackle climate change, and ensure no one is left behind. The UNA-Chicago cited ICJC’s “extraordinary leadership and efforts” in support of Global Goal #7, Affordable and Clean Energy.

UNA-Chicago will recognize 17 individuals and organizations dedicated to upholding each of the goals locally at tonight’s awards ceremony.

“ICJC’s unwavering enthusiasm and impact to further our global goals is something members of the United Nations Association Chicago Chapter commend and highlight, because it is testimony that when we put our efforts together, we have the power to help transform the world,” said UNA-Chicago Vice President Amanda Espitia.

“I’m thrilled to offer my congratulations to the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition for this well-deserved award and proud to see their state efforts recognized at a worldwide level. ICJC has been tireless in their commitment not only to protect our climate but to ensure that equity remains central to our focus. Simply put, Illinois would not boast the most equitable climate law in the nation without ICJC’s efforts, and I’m grateful for their partnership as we take significant steps toward a reliable, renewable, affordable and clean energy future,” said Governor JB Pritzker.

“The Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition is thrilled and humbled to receive this prestigious award. As a coalition of more than 200 organizations and thousands of members, we share the belief that we are stronger together and thank the United Nations Association for recognizing our commitment to protecting our climate, improving public health, and creating good-paying jobs in every community,” said Liliana Scales, ICJC State Director.

For more information about the UN Day Celebration, please visit www.unachicago.org or the event registration page.

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