SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A resolution promoting the importance of interracial friendship was passed by State Senator Rachel Ventura last week.

Senate Resolution 770 proposes to declare June 9 as Race Amity Day in Illinois, and would be celebrated on the second Sunday in June. 

“In times where hate and violence far too often persist, I wanted to pass a resolution declaring a day to highlight the interracial friendships that make our communities stronger,” said Ventura. “I encourage every Illinoisan to promote peace, kindness and welcome friendships regardless of ethnicity, religion, race or sexual orientation every day – not just on Race Amity Day – and to take a look at their own community and see where they can make others feel welcomed.”

The day is meant to build understanding and friendship between different racial and ethnic groups and promote dignity and respect for all.

"Race Amity Day is an opportunity to get the message out that all of us, of all races, backgrounds, cultures, ages, and genders, are all part of our community," said Jim Percic, co-chair of Illinois Citizens for Race Amity. "The purpose of the Race Amity movement is to have all of us make close friendships with those around us from different backgrounds to learn and understand our common humanity. This helps to strengthen our communities and helps to lessen the divisions in society."

Currently, four states have declared a Race Amity Day and nearly 60 cities across 17 states have made Race Amity Day proclamations. 

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