Advocacy Group Questions Flossmoor's Decision To Cancel 'Night Out'

FLOSSMOOR, IL — Groups who have spoken out against the handling of police-citizen interactions on Wednesday voiced their concern and disapproval over the Village's cancelation of its National Night Out event.

Village officials decided to nix the event just hours before it was to take place Tuesday, saying they made the call "out of an abundance of caution" after being "made aware of several conversations that have caused concern among law enforcement."

The cancelation notice added that Village "places a high priority on providing safe, family-friendly events that bring us together as a community. While we understand this announcement may disappoint many residents who are excited to attend, we did not want to place our guests, especially our younger guests, in a stressful environment."

Local advocate Dr. La'Shawn Littrice responded Wednesday, noting skepticism around the Village's reason for cancelation. Littrice has been among the most vocal in criticism of the Village of Flossmoor and Flossmoor Police Department after police fatally shot 64-year-old Madeline Miller.

"It is surprising to us that Flossmoor Police have heard these conversations, since those of us who have been protesting have not heard of any plans," Littrice wrote. "Flossmoor Police claim to have extensive surveillance into the movement for justice, but refuse to hear our actual demands for accountability and change."

Residents have turned out to several Village Board meetings demanding an internal investigation into the shooting. On Aug. 1, Miller's family and community members again gathered to speak at the Village Board meeting. After declining to extend the public comment portion to accommodate a large crowd, trustees were seen leaving the meeting as protesters chanted, "Black Lives Matter" and "Justice for Madeline Miller," as well as other phrases.

The Village of Flossmoor and Flossmoor Police Departments have noted the incident is under investigation by the Illinois State Police Integrity Task Force. The officers involved in the shooting have not been named.

"The demands from family and community members are for a safer Flossmoor," Littrice wrote. "It is for safety for Black residents, especially those facing mental health crises."

Patch has reached out to Flossmoor Mayor Michelle Nelson for comment.

Littrice's statement was made on behalf of Make Noize For Change, Justice For Nick, Good Kids Mad City, and Party For Socialism & Liberation.