Villa Park City Council adopts statement condemning violence and affirming free‑speech protections

The Villa Park City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved a statement condemning violence and affirming protections for free speech and peaceful assembly, amending the draft by removing the word “political.”

Councilwoman Crystal Miles, who requested the item, read the draft statement and said the council should make a uniform public stand after recent high‑profile violent events nationally. The original draft used the phrase “political violence”; during discussion the council agreed to broaden the language by removing “political” so the statement would condemn all forms of violence while upholding First Amendment protections.

“We condemn all forms of violence. We affirm our commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of every resident, including the freedoms of speech, expression and peaceful assembly,” Councilwoman Crystal Miles said as she introduced the item.

Councilman McBride, who co‑authored the draft, emphasized that the goal was to discourage violence while preserving civil discourse. After brief debate and an amendment to delete the word “political,” the council voted 5‑0 to adopt the statement as amended.

The approved statement affirms the council’s support for free expression, urges civil and constructive political discourse, and says Villa Park will “welcome diverse perspectives” and work to ensure residents feel safe to exercise their First Amendment rights.

Ending: Councilmembers requested the city distribute the adopted statement to residents; staff recorded the unanimous vote and the council closed the item.