Working Toward Racial Equity

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The Forest Preserves of Cook County (Illinois) protects nearly 70,000 acres of public land within the second most populous county in the nation. Cook County's size and diversity is a significant strength, but its region also is plagued by significant inequities, including unequal access to nature, clean air and water and outdoor recreation opportunities. The agency has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting an infrastructure and culture that is based on equity and inclusion. The Forest Preserves has formed and empowered a Racial, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee to address issues within its organization and recently formally adopted a position paper that outlines a strategy to move the agency toward racial equity. Racial equity is achievable if we all acknowledge the depth and intensity of the problem. The agency is excited to share its progress, as well as its setbacks, to listen to and learn from its NRPA partners, and to contribute to positive change.

Learning Objectives:

Learn how the Forest Preserves is applying a racial equity lens to its decisions, investments, policies, plans and practices.
Hear about how the Forest Preserves is making internal structural changes to address issues of racial equity.
Discover how the Forest Preserves is ensuring that all residents have access to nature through programs, events and outreach.

Arnold Randall (he/him)

General Superintendent

Forest Preserves of Cook County

The Forest Preserves of Cook County is headed by General Superintendent Arnold Randall, who was appointed to the position in 2010 by Forest Preserve District of Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle. During General Superintendent Randalls tenure, the Forest Preserves has made notable strides in becoming a more transparent, accountable and strategic government agency, with an increased focus on restoring and protecting Cook County's most precious natural areas. Key accomplishments include the ambitious Next Century Conservation Plan; a multi-year Centennial celebration to bring new and diverse audiences to the Preserves; developing and launching strategic plans for camping, recreation, trails and habitat restoration; creating an independent advisory Conservation and Policy Council comprised of civic and business leaders; and opening five new campgrounds that re-establish the legacy of camping in the Preserves. Before his tenure at the Forest Preserves, General Superintendent Randall served as director of the Office of Civic Engagement at the University of Chicago and commissioner of the City of Chicago's Department of Planning and Development. He also served in a number of roles with the Chicago Park District, including director of legislative and community affairs, director of planning and development, and lakefront area and south east region manager. General Superintendent Randall has served as chair of the Chicago Community Development Commission and Chicago Wilderness, and has been active in numerous civic and professional organizations, including the Woodlawn Children's Promise Community, American Planning Association, Illinois Parks and Recreation Association, and the National Recreation and Parks Association.