President & CEO Karen Freeman-Wilson’s Statement on the Noose Discovered at the Site of the Obama Presidential Center

Chicago Urban League President & CEO Karen Freeman-Wilson released the following statement on the discovery of a noose at the site of the Obama Presidential Center:

We are aware of the noose that was discovered at the construction site of the Obama Presidential Center.  We condemn that universal sign of hatred and brutality that has largely been used against Black men.  It is especially egregious that this symbolism was used on a site that will commemorate the first Black President and someone who has been a shining example of love and tolerance.  We will continue to stand with all victims of hate speech and actions that are directed at people based on their race, religion or sexual orientation.  More importantly, we consider it a part of our core mission to work towards the eradication of this behavior because it is a scourge to our community.