NORMAL (25News Now) – Bloomington-Normal’s Not In Our Town organization provided a gathering place on Sunday for people to discuss their feelings on some of the hot button issues that divide the community and the nation.
Not In Our Town was created 31 years ago to end bigotry and hate, address bullying, and build a safe and inclusive community
At Heartland Community College, building a safe place for serious discussions was the goal.
Sunday’s conversations covered a wide range of topics — from immigration and inflation to tariffs and growing concerns about ICE activity.
Approximately 50 people attended the session to share, listen, and support one another.
“It’s not just about what’s going on in the community, but also because there is a lot of tension in the country right now. It’s important for people not to feel isolated,” said one of the organizers, Mike Matejka, a union activist and former Bloomington alderman.
Rev. Elexis Wilson Thomas, a Not In Our Town member, said many participants shared how they’ve been feeling about current controversies.
“It’s a totality of topics because we’re concerned about ICE, but ICE connects to other concerns. Whether people realize it or not, their bodies are struggling. So, it wouldn’t be surprising if more people are getting sick or struggling with mental illness, because where do you place this kind of fear,” said Wilson Thomas.
Organizers said that’s why creating space for open conversation is so important.
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