Bloomington’s mayor will sign pledge to combat bigotry, city council asked to make same commitment

BLOOMINGTON (25News Now) - Bloomington Mayor Dan Brady intends to sign a pledge in which he would join forces with a local organization trying to rid the community of hate and bullying.

Brady’s willingness to work with Not In Our Town Bloomington-Normal runs contrary to what was said in recently distributed flyers that city officials said were “inflammatory.” The handouts called for a “March on Bloomington” on the morning of Saturday, Aug. 30, starting at Miller Park.

“We have the White House, Congress, the courts and the Bloomington Mayor,” the flyers said.

“Feel free to wear your military or patriotic organization colors PROUDLY and be ready to make some NOISE! The time for ‘not in our town’ is over. We’re claiming Illinois for REAL CITIZENS,” the leaflets also said.

Not in Our Town co-chair Mike Matejka, a former Bloomington alderman, said he will address the city council Monday night, and he expects a large turnout of other Not In Our Town members.

Matejka said Brady gave the group permission to distribute pledge cards to city council members. By signing them, the elected officials would declare that they share the Not in Our Town commitment to “stop hate, address bullying, and build a safe, inclusive community.”

Matejka said Brady signed the same pledge several years ago when he was a state representative.

“We are committed to protecting public safety and ensuring Bloomington remains a safe community for all residents,” the mayor told 25News.

As for signing the pledge again, Matejka said it seems like a good time to reaffirm those values.

It’s still a mystery who made the flyers and whether a “March on Bloomington” will actually take place.

Meanwhile, a group called Punks Against Trump is reportedly planning a “peaceful counterprotest,” also next Saturday morning at Miller Park. That same day, a “Say No to Hate” demonstration is scheduled during the noon hour at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts.

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