“What a sad era when it is easier to smash an atom than a prejudice.”

– Albert Einstein

Our eyes are open and we are aware of the ever present level of intolerance in our country. It has become apparent that people want to know how they can directly make a change. What can we do? All we can tell you is what we have made a point of doing in an effort to spark change. First and foremost, if you see something happening speak up. Don’t remain silent in an opportunity to raise your voice. Support local minority business owners. Listen and ally with individuals who report racism. These may seem like small steps, but we have entered an era where silence is unacceptable.

We have found some comfort in noticing more of these signs popping up around Wash Park and feel a great sense of pride for the message put forward by friends and neighbors in our community. These signs were originally created by a movement that began in Chicago’s North Park neighborhood, inspired by a phrase suggested by a third grader. It comes as no surprise to us that this message came from a child.

Your neighbors – Sam & Shaleen DeStefano