Hundreds of teens rioted in the streets near Millennium Park Saturday night in Chicago – many people didn’t like the Mayor-elect’s response.
Teens Who Committed Acts of Violence Just Need More Space
Chicago Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson said in a statement, posted to Twitter Sunday evening, that “it is not constructive to demonize” the youth that caused chaos and violence in the city’s downtown area over the weekend.
The mayor-elect has claimed they “have otherwise been starved of opportunities in their own community.”
Hundreds of police officers were called to the scene, arresting nine adults and six juveniles in connection to the riot.
Johnson, the progressive who will succeed Lori Lightfoot, claimed that while he condemns the riot, “it is not constructive to demonize youth.”
“In no way do I condone the destructive activity we saw in the Loop and Lakefront this weekend.” Johnson said, “it is unacceptable and has no place in our city.”
“Our city must work together to create spaces for youth to gather safely and responsibly, under adult guidance and supervision, to ensure that every part of our city remains welcome for both residents and visitors.”
“This is one aspect of my comprehensive approach to improve public safety and make Chicago livable for everyone.”
An Illinois state senator defended the Chicago “Teen Takeover” that unfolded Saturday night and left multiple boys shot, claiming it was simply “a mass protest against poverty and segregation.”
Anywhere from 300 to 1,000 teenagers reportedly took part in the riot.
WLS reported a 6-year-old boy being shot in the arm, and two teenage boys, ages 16 and 17, were also shot in the crowd, according Fox 32 Chicago. Other bystanders who were assaulted were hospitalized as well.
Johnson was elected as Chicago mayor on April 4, winning 51.42% to 48.58% over Democrat Paul Vallas.
Walmart to Close 4 Chicago Locations Because of Looting
In a statement released this week, the mega-retailer disclosed that it would be closing four “underperforming” Chicago locations.
They said these stores struggle to turn profits and lose “tens of millions of dollars a year.”
Walmart plans to keep four other Chicago stores operating but said they face the same issues. Employees at the stores that are closing are asked to relocate to other locations – locals are upset with the loss of their local stores.
Walmart said that they have “tried many different strategies” to improve the business in Chicago, which included testing smaller stores and “localizing product assortment.”
Some Twitter users are commenting on why Chicago citizens are complaining about looting and violence, since ‘that’s who they voted for.’
Chicago’s upcoming new mayor comments on his time as a teacher, where he rebelled and didn’t do test prepping, didn’t issue an F to any students, and didn’t issue a lot of homework.
Outgoing Mayor Lori Lightfoot issued a more strongly worded condemnation.
“As I have said before, we as a city cannot and will not allow any of our public spaces to become a platform for criminal conduct,” the mayor’s statement, obtained by NBC Chicago, read. “Most importantly, parents and guardians must know where their children are and be responsible for their actions. Instilling the important values of respect for people and property must begin at home.”
Further Reading:
Chicago Taken Over By Mob of Teens
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