Local Woman Leaders Gather For 8th Annual 'Hats Off' Celebration

FLOSSMOOR, IL — Cook County Commissioner and Democratic nominee for Congress Donna Miller welcomed Congresswoman Robin Kelly, former Congresswoman Melissa Bean, and state and regional elected officials to the eighth annual Hats Off celebration July 19 at Wind Creek Chicago Southland.

The annual event brought together women leaders, elected officials, advocates, and community members from across the Southland to recognize women whose public service, professional accomplishments, and community leadership continue to move the region forward.

“For eight years, Hats Off has given us an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary women of the Southland and to recognize the work they do every day,” Miller said. “Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District is stronger because of them, Illinois is stronger because of them, and our nation is stronger because of them.”

This year’s celebration also reflected on the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding and the continuing work required to fulfill America’s promise that all people are created equal. In response to the administration "turning back the clock" on "women's healthcare ... Medicare ... Medicaid ... Social Secutiy ...," Miller stated, "We must love our country more fiercely than those who are trying to tear it apart."

Miller was joined by Congresswoman Robin Kelly, former Congresswoman Melissa Bean, former Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, Cook County Commissioner Bridget Degnen, Flossmoor Mayor Michelle Nelson, Glenwood Mayor Ron Gardiner, Illinois Appellate Court Justices Cynthia Cobbs and Sharon Johnson, and other regional leaders.

Members of AFSCME joined labor leaders, community advocates, young women, and residents from throughout the Southland for the annual celebration of women’s leadership and service.