Naperville mayor reacts to racist post

Daily Herald report

Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico released the following statement Wednesday in response to a Naperville Central student's racist post on Craigslist:

"Like all of you, I was saddened and disturbed to learn of the recent incident at Naperville Central High School involving a racist post made online about a student. Today, the DuPage County State's Attorney's Office announced that, following an investigation by the Naperville Police Department, the student who allegedly made that post has been charged with a hate crime.

"As mayor, I condemn any acts of racism or intolerance in Naperville's borders. Racism in our community has made national - and even international - headlines in recent weeks. These types of acts happen throughout the country, many times going unreported. As a well-respected city, the spotlight shines brighter on us - and when it does, we demonstrate how to respond by addressing it head-on, openly and honestly.

"This is not a time to turn a blind eye. Instead, we need to continue and amplify the courageous conversations on these topics that have already begun. Through the work of Naperville Neighbors United, started by my colleague Councilman Benny White, we're hearing raw, honest dialogue take place on the topics of equality, inclusion and race. I applaud those efforts and encourage all of you to take part in these events and call out acts of racism when you see or hear them taking place.

"The narrative surrounding Naperville recently is NOT reflective of who we are as a community. As mayor, I want us to be known and applauded for being the caring, inclusive and welcoming community I see firsthand every day, not as a place where hate lives. Naperville needs to showcase our leadership in speaking out against racism and make it known that our legacy is one of diversity, inclusion and civility - not hate."