Harlem Avenue 'Little Palestine Way' Honoring Palestinian Americans Contributions Official

BRIDGEVIEW, IL—Little Palestine Way, recognizing the economic and cultural contributions of Palestinian-Americans, is now a reality. HJR0046 has passed the Illinois Senate during a marathon session early Monday morning.

HJR 0046 designates Harlem Avenue, from 79th Street to 111th Street, as “Little Palestine Way,” which passes through the towns of Bridgeview, Burbank, Chicago Ridge, Palos Hills and Worth.

“While many people will see the signs, this recognition belongs to the people who often stay behind the scenes and never ask for credit,” said Sabha Abour.“This is for the business owners who took a chance on Harlem Avenue, the families who built their lives here, the community leaders, the parents, the volunteers, and the everyday people who helped make this corridor what it is today.”

In addition to Abour, Amani Siam, Kalid Baste, Sonia Khalil, Sami Khalil and Abu Musa Hammad, spearheaded the effort for a street designation that would pay tribute to the people who built the community along these 32 blocks of Harlem Avenue.

“This moment means so much to me because it represents generations of hard work, sacrifice, and community pride,” Sonia Khalil said. “When I look at Little Palestine Way, I think of my father, Samir Khalil, and the legacy he helped build through service, leadership, and his love for our community. I think of the families, business owners, and neighbors I grew up with who inspired me to become involved and taught me the importance of giving back.”

Championing the bill in the Illinois House were Reps. Lisa Davis (32nd District) and Mike Crawford (31st District).

"I am so incredibly grateful to Lisa Davis for spearheading this effort in Springfield and championing its passage, and to Michael Crawford for his support and partnership in helping make this vision a reality,” Khalil said. “Their commitment to recognizing and celebrating our community played a vital role in this achievement.”

The Illinois Department of Transportation is expected to start installing the brown honorary Lille Palestine Way signs over the summer.