Author: Unfence Gillson
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The Right to the Shoreline: A Must-Read Report on Beach Access and Racial Equity
In our ongoing fight for open and equitable access to public beaches, a compelling report has come to light that provides essential context for our efforts. The Chicago Council on Global Affairs’ report, “The Right to the Shoreline: Race, Exclusion, and Public Beaches in Metropolitan Chicago,” offers a deep dive into the history of beach…
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Today’s Media Spotlight: “Unfence Gillson” Labor Day March Featured in The Record North Shore
We’re excited to share that in addition to all three major news networks, radio, and even nationwide coverage, Monday’s demonstration at Gillson Beach was covered by The Record North Shore. Our Labor Day protest gathered nearly 60 dedicated supporters who marched along the lakefront with picket signs, chants, and songs, demanding the removal of the…
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ABC 5:00 News Segment Spotlights Our Protest — Watch the Coverage!
We rallied a big crowd for a Labor Day demonstration against the new fees and fencing at Gillson Park. Marching from Elmwood Dunes to Gillson’s South Beach, we highlighted the public’s right to free lakefront access. We received significant media coverage from ABC 7 News, boosting our cause’s visibility.
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Today’s Press Highlights Continued Community Pushback Against Gillson Beach Fence
With today’s new article in The Record North Shore, Wilmette Park District’s controversial fence at Gillson Beach continues to face intense scrutiny, with the community’s persistent opposition gaining significant press coverage. From local papers to international outlets, the issue has sparked on average nearly one story every five days. Read on to celebrate our continued…
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Latest Chicago Tribune Coverage
Our campaign continues to draw attention to the embattled Wilmette Park District. Today, the Tribune published another article, this time emphasizing the community’s response to the fence at Gillson Park’s South Beach and the district’s willful lack of communication, contrasted with surveys for far less impactful decisions. You can read the full article here: Wilmette…
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A Heartfelt Plea to Preserve Joy at Gillson Park
In today’s Chicago Tribune, Wilmette resident Mary Ann McGinley has eloquently captured the community’s deep sense of loss and frustration over the new fence and fee system at Gillson Park’s south beach. For half a century, this beach has been a treasured sanctuary for families, where children could build sandcastles and create lasting memories.
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Exclusionary Practices at Gillson Park: A Personal Insight by Lee Goodman
Lee Goodman shares a poignant essay highlighting the racial and exclusionary implications of the new fence at Gillson Park. Goodman describes the fence as a barrier that “still largely works to keep people of color away,” reflecting a troubling legacy of exclusion. His personal experiences and historical insights call for more inclusive community policies.
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Yard Signs Are Here – Reserve Yours Today!
We are excited to announce that our “Unfence Gillson” yard signs are now available! These signs are a powerful way to show your support for keeping Gillson Park open and accessible to all. Click here to reserve your yard sign today and join our community effort to preserve the beauty and openness of our beloved…
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International Media Spotlight on #UnfenceGillson Movement
The Unfence Gillson campaign to preserve open access to Gillson Park’s south beach is gaining major traction! We’re thrilled to share that the movement was recently featured in the Daily Mail, an internationally renowned publication. In their article, “Wealthy residents of idyllic Illinois town left furious as council erects ‘eye-sore fence’ that blocks stunning views…
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Breaking News: Op-Ed Highlights Community Outrage Over Gillson Park Fence Decision
The press is taking notice! A just-published op-ed in the Chicago Tribune has spotlighted the increasing community outrage and press coverage over the Wilmette Park District’s decision to install a fence at Gillson Park without proper public input. This decision, made in the dark, has sparked a wave of anger and frustration among residents who…