BREAKING NEWS--Holiday Inn Cancels MINUTEMAN event; groups weigh options.
The HOLIDAY INN CRYSTAL LAKE has canceled the ILLINOIS MINUTEMAN PROJECT meeting scheduled for this Saturday. Representatives of the McHENRY COUNTY PEACE GROUP, LATINO COALITION, and the CARPENTERSVILLE COMMUNITY ALLIANCE first got wind of a possible cancellation during a meeting with CRYSTAL LAKE POLICE authorities this morning (Wednesday.)
The NORTHEWEST HERALD posted confirmation on their web site hours later. The paper quotes Illinois Minuteman Director ROSANNA PULIDO that the hotel backed out because of security concerns and because the Crystal Lake Police requested re-imbursement for extra police protection. She indicated that the group would try to find an alternative site in Crystal Lake for the event.
Word of the cancellation came shortly after Latino Coalition leader CARLOS ACOSTA received a communication from Puldio denying him admittance to the ticket-only event and refunding him his $10 admission. The group evidently did not want any dissenting opinions at its “public” meeting.
Participants at the morning meeting indicated a willingness to proceed with the rally at SANDS and THREE OAKS ROADS from 1:30 to 4 pm this Saturday. They will consult with their organization and announce firm plans as soon as possible.
Speaking for the Peace Group, PATRICK MURFIN said, “We want it to be clear that at no time did we bring any pressure on the Holiday Inn to cancel this event. We believe in free speech and the freedom to assemble, even for those with whom we disagree. We just wanted the public to know by virtue of our public vigil that the McHenry County community includes those who embrace diversity and who oppose mindless and punitive action against undocumented workers and the Latino community as a whole.”
Keep an eye on this space for the latest information and developments as they occur.