Unfortunately, the media headlines published “angry protestors” and “free speech” as the main focus. We were not angry, just full of conviction, and freedom of speech was never the issue. The issue was and always has been to make Bloomington/Normal a community where all people can live without fear of being stereotyped, discriminated against, or feel prejudice.
Camille Taylor
Our goal is for Bloomington/Normal to revisit and revitalize the efforts started so many years ago by folks like Barb Adkins, Mike Matejka, Marc and Darlene Miller, Rev. McSwain, and Charles and Willie Halbert. It’s interesting to note that our community didn’t experience litigation or smear tactics when an Islamic Center was built here in Bloomington. I would like to think the efforts of our local NIOT movement made a difference.