On Wednesday, August 5, 2020, the library will host a Listening Session for community members about Policing in Downers Grove from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m at the Park District Recreation Center, located at 4500 Belmont Road, Downers Grove. Since the death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, while in the custody of Minneapolis police officers, many community members have expressed interest in understanding the Downers Grove Police Department’s policies and practices.
This program is an opportunity for Downers Grove community members to have their voices heard on policing issues. Active listeners include Downers Grove Village Manager Dave Fieldman, Chief of Police Shanon Gillette, and District 99 Superintendent Dr. Hank Thiele.
Comments may be submitted in advance to the library at dglibrary.org/listen or bit.ly/PolicingDG. The library encourages community members to submit comments in advance due to regulations of the Restore Illinois Plan and space limitations. Comments will be presented by one of the moderators and will remain anonymous. The library will post a recording of the event. Community members may wish to review the Police Department Information and Transparency FAQ to help prepare for the event.
This listening session is part of an ongoing effort by the library to create spaces for dialogue between community leaders and members. Listening sessions on diversity, equity, and inclusion are planned for September. More information will be posted at dglibrary.org/listen as dates are finalized. All are welcome to participate in listening sessions hosted by the Downers Grove Public Library.
To comply with the regulations of Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois Plan and for the health and safety of all participants, seating is limited to a maximum of 50 community members. Please register in advance at dglibrary.org/events.
This program is hosted by the Downers Grove Public Library in partnership with the Village of Downers Grove.
