Statement on Racial Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
The Forest Preserve Foundation (Foundation) believes that the diversity of our principal constituency, the residents of Cook County, IL, is a fundamental strength of our community. Our inclusive culture extends to valuing the diversity of backgrounds and experiences of our volunteers, employees, and business and community partners.
We believe our mission to improve the quality of life for the residents of Cook County, by protecting native biological species and enhancing outdoor experiences for present and future generations of residents, is best fulfilled when we embrace diversity as a value and a practice.
Therefore, it is the Foundation’s commitment that the composition of our organization reflect the diversity and demographics of the community being served, including among its leadership at the board and staff level. As well, the Foundation encourages grant applicants to make diversity and inclusion an important goal of their organization.
Land Acknowledgement
The Forest Preserve Foundation shares the land acknowledgment of the Forest Preserves of Cook County.
The Forest Preserves of Cook County acknowledges that we are on the lands of the Council of Three Fires—the Ojibwa, Ottawa and Potawatomi—as well as the Miami, Peoria, Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Sauk and Meskwaki peoples.
As a land management agency, we acknowledge that we have played a role in shaping the histories of local Native Americans by acquiring this land. We also recognize, share and celebrate their immemorial ties to this land.
We commit ourselves to developing deeper partnerships that advocate for the progress, dignity and humanity of the many diverse Native Americans who still live and practice their heritage and traditions on this land today.