FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CARBONDALE -

The Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC) will visit Carbondale from October 20-21 for a series of informational and community focused programs. 

On Tuesday, October 20, 5:30-7:30 p.m. CDHC’s Join to Stop Hate State Tour will stop in Carbondale for a film screening and discussion at the Carbondale Public Library, 405 W. Main St. The free event includes a screening of the film, “Join or Die” and a community conversation about the power of joining. Learn more about the film at https://joinordiefilm.com/. 

The following day, CDHC is collaborating with the City of Carbondale to host a “Community Conversation on “How Can We Build a Safer, More Connected Community” on Wednesday, October 21 at 5:30 p.m. the Carbondale Civic Center, 200 South Illinois Ave. 

“The most fundamental level of hate prevention includes community members working together to envision and build strong, connected communities where hate cannot flourish,” said CDHC Executive Director Elana Kahn. “During this conversation, we will focus not on grievance, but on how we can together create a community where people feel more connected, resourced, and resilient.” 

During the conversation, participants will discuss the link between social connection and hate-fueled violence and will explore how to strengthen social cohesion in Carbondale.  

Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the community conversation begins at 5:30 p.m. Light refreshments and beverages will be available. Seating is limited and registration is preferred. Register here: https://form.jotform.com/262776437397171

For more information, please contact Dianah McGreehan at dmcgreehan@carbondaleil.gov or call 618-457-3282.  

CDHC is a Governor’s Commission housed within the Illinois Department of Human Rights. Learn more about the commission at cdhc.illinois.gov.  

To report an act of hate, visit StopHate.Illinois.gov anytime or call 877-458-HATE (4283) M-F, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Central Time. 

For more information contact Carbondale's Director of Violence Prevention Programs, Dianah McGreehan, at dmcgreehan@carbondaleil.gov or at 618-457-3282. 

“Carbondale prides itself on providing its visitors, students, businesses and residents with a unique mix of edge and ease. It’s a cultural town, yet free of pretense, embracing the great outdoors as readily as urban sophistication. Here, we are open to new ideas, experiences and cultures, so you are encouraged to both express yourself and be yourself, in all ways. That’s Carbondale…All Ways Open…for family, fun, business, new ideas and a bright tomorrow.”
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