Kane County Board Proclaims Dec. 1 As Scheketa Hart-Burns Day

AURORA, IL — In Kane County, Dec. 1, 2023, will be known as Aurora Alderwoman Scheketa Hart-Burns Day, per a new Kane County Board proclamation.

Dec. 1 would have been the late alderwoman's 69th birthday.

"We shall celebrate the beautiful life of Aurora Alderwoman Scheketa Hart-Burns, for she will forever remain in our hearts as the Queen of Aurora," the proclamation reads.

The Board on Nov. 21 proclaimed the day in honor of Hart-Burns, who died on June 19 from surgical complications. She made history not once, but twice in Aurora, first by becoming in 1991 the first Black person to hold a seat on the Aurora City Council — she went on to serve for more than 30 years — and again to become the first Black person to be appointed mayor pro tem from 2016 to 2017.

"Throughout her illustrious career, she exemplified the essence of public service, consistently advocating for those who may have been disadvantaged and striving to create a better more inclusive society for all," the proclamation reads.

It continues: "Beyond her dedication to public service, Aurora Alderwoman Hart-Burns touched countless lives with her compassion and love for each person she encountered. Her memorable signature phrase, 'love you, love you,' resonated with all who were fortunate enough to know her, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts."

RELATED: 'Trailblazing Public Servant': Alderwoman Hart-Burns Dies At 68