Illinois commission to host community conversation on confronting hate and discrimination

CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) — The Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes is teaming up with the City of Carbondale to host a community conversation on confronting hate and discrimination.

The “Help Stop Hate: Carbondale Community Conversation” will take place on Aug. 25 at 6 p.m. at the Carbondale Civic Center. The event aims to provide a safe space for residents to share their experiences with discrimination and hate.

City Manager Stan Reno emphasized the importance of creating a safe and inclusive community, saying every resident deserves to feel valued and heard.

The Help Stop Hate initiative, launched by the Illinois Department of Human Rights and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes, provides a confidential way for residents to report incidents of hate and discrimination.

Executive Director Elana Kahn noted that hate can cause harm not only to individuals but also to entire communities, emphasizing the importance of reporting incidents to create a safer and more inclusive Illinois.

During the conversation, Kahn and representatives from the commission will facilitate a dialogue with residents to gather input on confronting hate and creating safer communities.

The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required due to limited seating.