[Peace-discuss] Don't discriminate against the poor: Picket @ 6pm Council mtg @ 7pm

[Danielle Chynoweth]

Dear friends and neighbors,

Council will be discussing the anti-panhandling ordinance again TODAY
Monday, July 25th.

I just received word that there will be an* informational picket at 6
pm*opposing the bill outside council chambers. The
*council will meet at 7 pm *and will take public input at that time.

After hearing from dozens of opponents and receiving a petition with 300+
signatures, council is now divided on whether to kill the bill or make
revisions.

The latest version would ban aggressive panhandling, panhandling in a group
of two or more, and panhandling near an ATM or bank or on private property
if asked not to or a sign is posted.

See the revised ordinance here:
http://urbanaillinois.us/sites/default/files/attachments/ordinance-2011-07-099.pdf

I continue to oppose this ordinance despite revisions for two reasons:

1) The city has not yet answered how existing city laws against assault,
battery, trespassing, and loitering are inadequate addressing the concerns.

2)  Any ordinance they pass must separate aggression from asking for money.
Targeting panhandling makes the law clearly about discriminating against the
poor rather than merely stopping aggression. Laws should apply to everyone
regardless of their economic status.

*Please show up Monday at 400 S. Vine St at 6pm to join the picket and 7pm
to voice your ideas, concerns and ensure accountability on a vote.* Take a
yellow slip at the back of the chambers, fill it out to speak or register
your opposition, and turn it into the city clerk.

thanks!
Danielle
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