Calling a new Arizona law that targets illegal immigrants – or anyone who could be an illegal immigrant – Cook County Commissioners are set to discuss
an ordinance that would cancel all contracts with Arizona-based companies.
The ordinance, introduced by Commissioners Joseph Mario Moreno and Edwin Reyes, was referred to the finance committee.
Commissioners said the Arizona law was reminiscent of World War II Germany in targeting certain groups of people.
“We need to send a message and the message is strong. We are opposed to this law,” Moreno said.
"I can truly relate to what they are feeling because of how we dealt with Apartheid,” said Commissioner Earlean Collins, referring to similar measures taken during that period in South Africa’s history.
"We won't and we shouldn't stand idely while rights of law abiding citizens are being violated in the name of cracking down on illegal immigration, and we cannot accept a politically driven law against illegal immigration that is inhumane and impossible to enforce," Reyes said in a statement.
Commissioners want to know more about how boycotting Arizona businesses that employ Cook County residents would affect the county.
Commissioners Collins, Deborah Sims, Robert Steele and Joan Patricia Murphy also signed on as supporters.