The ordinance introduced aims to recognize "Middle Eastern or North African" (MENA) Americans as an identified group on government forms in the City of Chicago. It acknowledges that the U.S. Census Bureau does not currently include all of the nation's identified groups, but starting in 2029, the U.S. Census and future federal government forms will have a new option for individuals to select MENA when identifying their race and/or ethnicity. The ordinance notes that the exclusion of MENA Americans from the Census has led to their inability to obtain affirmative action resources available to other historically disadvantaged groups. It also references the American Community Survey, which indicates that MENA Americans have faced widespread prejudice and discrimination, resulting in economic deprivation.

The ordinance mandates that, except where state or federal law or regulation requires otherwise, all City of Chicago departments, agencies, or offices that compile or report statistical data using racial or ethnic classifications must include a classification for MENA individuals. This change is in line with recent amendments to the Uniform Racial Classification Act and the Data Governance and Organization to Support Equity and Racial Justice Act at the state level. The ordinance specifies that the requirements and duties it imposes are subject to the provisions of Chapter 2-173 of the Municipal Code of Chicago and that it shall take effect immediately upon passage. The ordinance is presented by Alderman Gilbert Villegas of the 36th Ward.