All United Celebrates Historic Wins in Orland Park, Aurora, and Municipal Races Across Illinois
Today, All United announced groundbreaking victories in the 2025 Illinois municipal election cycle, marking a pivotal moment for community-driven politics. With a historic surge in voter turnout, All United played a decisive role in shaping elections across Illinois, helping to secure key wins in Orland Park, Aurora, and multiple municipal races.
In Orland Park, the organization’s efforts helped mobilize a historically underrepresented electorate, quadrupling voter turnout from the last municipal election and surpassing the 2024 presidential election turnout. This resounding statement from the Arab and Muslim communities underscores a newfound political engagement that cannot be ignored.
“We made history in Orland Park and in defeating Keith Pekau,” said Yusuf Vidal, Political Director of All United. “Campaigns don’t traditionally focus on communities that don’t historically vote. I have been involved in election cycles for years, and I have never seen anything like what we accomplished here. This cycle, we proved that when we come together, when we organize, when we mobilize—we win.”
Yousif Zegar, Chair of the Board of All United, also celebrated the achievements of this election cycle, emphasizing the power of collective action. "From the very beginning, we promised to organize against Mayor Pekau at the polls—and we fulfilled that promise. This election was a direct response to his blatant disrespect toward the Arab and Muslim community and his unfortunate attempts to otherize us, question our belonging, and disseminate bigoted tropes that compounded the rise in anti-Muslim sentiment. But today, our community made it clear: We will not be dismissed, we will not be disrespected, and we will never be taken for granted again.”
Jim Dodge, now Mayor-elect of Orland Park, also expressed his gratitude for All United’s contributions. “I am deeply grateful to All United for their dedication and commitment to uplifting communities that have long been overlooked. Their efforts and support have made a lasting impact, and I am honored to stand alongside them in building a more representative and just future in Orland Park.”
The momentum extended beyond Orland Park, as All United played an important role in securing victories in Aurora, including the successful election of John Laesch and multiple municipal candidates who share the organization’s vision for justice, equity, and representation.
“These victories are a testament to the power of grassroots organizing and the strength of communities who have too often been ignored. When people come together with a shared vision for justice and inclusion, there is nothing we cannot achieve. I’m proud to stand with All United in building a future where every voice counts,” said State Representative Abdelnasser Rashid (D-Bridgeview).
As All United looks to the future, Vidal reinforced that this movement is only beginning. “This victory isn’t just about one election. It’s about building a future where every voice is heard, where leadership reflects the diversity and strength of our communities. And we are just getting started.”
