
Jenna Gomez (left), of Cobden, and Jessica Moore, of Ullin, lead protesters down Davie Street in Anna during a rally on June 4 to protest the death of George Floyd, police brutality and racism.
The author of a well-known book exposing sundown towns — where Black people were not welcome after dark — said these communities need to take three steps: acknowledge their racist past, apologize for it and take concrete steps to change.
“First,” James W. Loewen said, “they need to admit it: Yes, we did this.”
Loewen, a sociologist and the author of “Sundown Towns: A Hidden Dimension of American Racism” was speaking Tuesday at a virtual forum hosted by ProPublica Illinois exploring the history and current state of sundown towns, many of which have recently hosted Black Lives Matter protests and marches for the first time in their histories.
The event also featured Logan Jaffe, an engagement reporter for ProPublica Illinois, who wrote an article in November titled “The Legend of A-N-N-A: Revisiting an American town where Black people weren’t welcome after dark,” as well as Takiyah Coleman and Jessica Moore, two organizers of Anna’s first Black Lives Matter rally in June.
Loewen said that sundown towns, many of which continue to have nearly all-White populations, can enter the recovery phase after acknowledging and apologizing for their racist pasts. But only by taking “actual steps” to change, such as by making a concerted effort to hire Black teachers, police officers and other municipal employees and to diversify the town's population.
“Once you’ve taken those three steps, then you are no longer a sundown town — then you’ve made some real progress,” Loewen said.
Loewen said this work is the job of every sundown town in America “not just the flamboyant ones like Anna, but also the elegant suburbs like Kenilworth, Illinois, which is a beautiful suburb of Chicago — but just as much a sundown town as Anna ever was.”
In addition to his book, Loewen also continues to chronicle confirmed and suspected sundown towns on a website. There are dozens of them in Illinois, including in this region: Vienna, Benton, Steeleville, Ava, McLeansboro, Carterville, Herrin, Equality, Golconda, Cave-In-Rock, Goreville and others. Some sundown towns passed ordinances outlawing Black people after dark, or posted signs at their entrance that read, “Black people (or N-word), don’t let the sun go down on you in (insert town name).” In others, White townspeople organized on their own to send messages to Black people that they weren’t welcome by burning crosses in their yards, setting fires to homes or by mob violence.
Jaffe’s article explored Anna’s reputation as a sundown town, and residents’ relationship to what the town — named for its founder’s wife, Anna — was reputed to stand for: Ain’t No N------ Allowed. “Nearly everyone I met knew what Anna stands for — whether they heard it first as a ‘joke’ at school or from their grandparents or just from living here long enough,” Jaffe wrote in the article. “Most people said they wished the A-N-N-A reputation would just go away and were quick to say Anna wasn’t ‘like that’ anymore.
“Like what? I’d ask. If Anna has changed, how?”
After her article was published by ProPublica and The Atlantic magazine, Jaffe said she heard from people across the country about their experiences with sundown towns.
When Moore, Coleman and other young people from Anna and surrounding towns organized a Black Lives Matter protest in Anna in early June, they didn’t know what to expect. Some 200 people showed up to march alongside them. Coleman said it was great to see such a large, supportive crowd. Most of the individuals who joined the protest were White people. Several said they wanted to do their part to improve Anna and change its culture and reputation into a place that is welcoming rather than exclusive — and acknowledged there was still work to do.
In an acknowledgement of Anna's reputation, the protesters reclaimed Anna's unofficial acronym, chanting instead, "Ain't No Negativity Allowed."
But Coleman and Moore noted that they have also faced backlash from some in the community for organizing the event. Facebook, in particular, has provided a forum for a barrage of negativity against them. Both young women said they are not letting it discourage them and plan to continue to push for a more inclusive society.
“It’s not just sundown towns or little towns around here,” Moore said. “It needs to be everywhere. ... Everybody needs to be aware of what is going on in their hometowns, in their cities — wherever. They need to know that racism still exists and that we can get along. We can become friends. Let’s change the world. Let’s make big things come from it.”
Southern Illinoisans hold demonstrations in response to George Floyd's death
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Aveon Winfield, of Grand Chain, leads a chant on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, calls out chants on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

March organizer Elijah Burnett, of Carterville, speaks to a demonstrators on Saturday, June 13, 2020, at the end of a demonstration against racism and inequality at John W. Jones Park in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Demonstrators gather at the Marion Town Square on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, speaks to fellow demonstrators on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Nancy Maxwell, of Carbondale, speaks to fellow demonstrators on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Eddie Beavers, of Gallatin County, holds up the arm of Korshawn Johnson, a demonstrator from Carterville, on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality in Marion. Beavers said he attended the march to be in support of the community and to spread love. “Black lives matter and so do all lives,” Beavers said. “I don’t want to see people torn down and that includes anyone here and that includes the police department.”
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Mike Absher, the mayor of the City of Marion, listens in to speakers on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, reads the last words of Black people killed by police on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Jennifer Hankins, of Harrisburg, embraces Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion. Hanks said she attended the march with her three biracial children in hopes of sparking change in the community.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Aveon Winfield, of Grand Chain, leads multiple chants on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Mike Absher, the mayor of the City of Marion, watches protestors on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

A message about racism is displayed on a parked car on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Demonstrators march on Saturday during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Mika Seresbeno, 17, of Marion, marches down South Market Street on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Umarra Winfield, 18, of Grand Chain, rallies against racism and inequality on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Jonathan Logwood, of Carbondale, marches down South Market Street on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

March organizer Elijah Burnett, of Carterville, speaks to a fellow demonstrators on Saturday, June 13, 2020, before a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, speaks to fellow demonstrates on Saturday, June 13, 2020, before a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Treesa Fischl, a demonstration organizer from Herrin, leads rallies against racism and inequality on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Demonstrators march up South Market Street on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

State and local law enforcement escort demonstrators as they march up South Market Street on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, and Treesa Fischl, of Herrin, rally against racism and inequality on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Kirstey Minor, right, of Benton, holds up a sign seeking justice for Breonna Taylor, a Black woman who was shot eight times when officers entered her apartment in Louisville, on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Demonstrators take a moment of silence while Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, raises his fist Saturday during a demonstration for equality and peace in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Karen Schauwecker, of Carbondale, listens in to speakers Saturday during a demonstration at the town square Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

March organizer Elijah Burnett, of Carterville, speaks to a fellow demonstrator on Saturday before a demonstration to promote equality and peace in Marion. For more coverage on Saturday's demonstration in Marion, go to TheSouthern.com.
Carbondale educators

Teachers line Illinois Avenue in Carbondale Friday morning to advocate for racial justice.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Lauren Jones, of Marion, holds her 9-month-old son Asher, on Friday during a drive-thru demonstration in Carbondale against the death of George Floyd.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

A “coexist” flag is draped on the vehicle of Tara Bell, the board chair for the Rainbow Cafe from Johnston City, on Friday during a drive-thru demonstration in Carbondale against the death of George Floyd.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Demonstration organizer Nancy Maxwell, talks to roughly 100 community members on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Umarra Winfield, an 18-year-old demonstrator from Grand Chain, recites her poem “P.S.” on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Ginger Rye, a member of Women for Change Carbondale, speaks to the crowds about injustices on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Tavae Lewis, of Carbondale, livestreams a speech by Ginger Rye, a member of Women for Change Carbondale, on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Matt Wilson, of Carbondale, dances with fellow demonstrators on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Dr. Pamela Smoot, of Carbondale, dances with fellow demonstrators on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Cars file down South Washington Street on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the City of Carbondale Public Safety Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Cars file down South Washington Street on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the City of Carbondale Public Safety Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Cars file down South Washington Street on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the City of Carbondale Public Safety Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Sharra Brown, of Carbondale, raises a fist outside her window as cars file down South Washington Street on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the City of Carbondale Public Safety Center in Carbondale.
Carbondale educators

Unity Point teacher Kristen Grimmer was among several dozen educators who joined Friday morning's demonstration on Illinois Avenue in Carbondale.
Carbondale educators

Educators held a rally Friday morning in Carbondale in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Justice for Black Lives rally in Sparta

Demonstrators march down Market Street in Sparta Saturday. Nearly 100 protesters took to the streets of Sparta for the second day in a row to demand an end to police brutality in the United States, especially against black men and women.
Justice for Black Lives rally in Sparta

A driver waits for marchers to pass Saturday during Sparta’s Justice for Black Lives protest.
Justice for Black Lives rally in Sparta

Johnnie Williams addresses the crowd Saturday during Sparta’s Justice for Black Lives protest.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

Kiersten Owens, of Benton, leads demonstrators in a chant Saturday.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

The family of Bryan and Christen Drew displayed messages of unity in front of his law office on the Benton Square during Saturday's demonstration for racial equality.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

Tyler Chance (right) of West Frankfort holds a sign that calls for an end to racism in Southern Illinois and the nation at Saturday's demonstration in Benton.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

About 60 people gathered on the Benton Square on Saturday to demonstrate for racial equality.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

Demonstrators on the Benton square on Saturday pay tribute to George Floyd.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

A man flips off protesters as he drives by Saturday's demonstration for racial justice in Benton.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

A man critical of demonstrators in Benton flips them off as he walks by shouting "All lives matter."
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

About 60 people joined a demonstration on the Benton square on Saturday holding various signs calling for racial justice.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

Demonstrators on the Benton square on Saturday hold up signs calling for racial justice.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

About 60 people gathered for a demonstration in Benton on Saturday.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

Korshawn Johnson, of Williamson County, leads demonstrators in a call-and-response chant in Benton during Saturday's Black Lives Matter rally in front of the historical Franklin County Courthouse.
More than 200 attend Black Lives Matter rally in Du Quoin

Protesters walk down Washington Street (U.S. 51) in Du Quoin Saturday evening to say "black lives matter."
More than 200 attend Black Lives Matter rally in Du Quoin

Shianne Adams shares a bottle of water with her 4-year-old son, Raeden Hanson, during a protest Saturday in Du Quoin.
More than 200 attend Black Lives Matter rally in Du Quoin

Protesters walk down Washington Street (U.S. 51) in Du Quoin Saturday evening to say "black lives matter."
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Elise Grabowska, of Carbondale, listens to speakers while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, outsides of the civic center in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Travis Washington, of Carbondale, speaks about holding government accountable and the “Hand’s Up Act” while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, outsides of the civic center in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Mollie Osinga, far left, prays with her mother Jodie Salazar and father Antonio Salazar III, all of Carterville, Ill., while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Protesters march in Herrin

Protesters march from Herrin Memorial Park on Friday evening in response to the death of George Floyd while in police custody last week in Minneapolis.
Watch Now: Protesters march in Herrin
Protesters march in Herrin

Protesters kneel at the intersection of Herrin Street and Park Avenue during a rally on Friday evening in Herrin in response to the death of George Floyd on Memorial Day in Minneapolis.
Protesters march in Herrin

Tyler Green shouts with other protesters during a march from Herrin Memorial Park down Herrin Street on Friday evening in response to the death of George Floyd in police custody last week in Minneapolis.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators in Carbondale take a knee last week while rallying against the death of George Floyd.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Nicholas Brown, of Du Quoin, holds his brother Apollo Gaston, 2, on his shoulders while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators in Carbondale rally last week against the death of George Floyd.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Courtlin Jabrae filmed his most recent music video during the Justice for George Floyd rally and march this past Friday in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Kierra Greer, of Chicago, speaks last week to demonstrators rallying outside of the police department in Carbondale against the death of George Floyd.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Kierra Greer, of Chicago, speaks to demonstrators rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, outside of the police department in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Madyson Swope, 15, of Carbondale, Ill., rallies against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale. “I want to show that I am black and I am proud,” Swope said.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Jay Campbell, 17, of Carbondale, Ill., talks about being stereotyped while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale. “I’m tired of my people being just a number – just a statistic. We’re better than that,” Campbell said. “We’re better than those labels and I want my people to know that.”
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Michael Coleman, a march organizer from Waukegan, calls out while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Cyril Hopes, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, holds up a charcoal drawing of George Floyd, a Minnesota man who died while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Michael Coleman, the march organizer from Waukegan, calls out “say his name” Friday in Carbondale while rallying against the death of George Floyd.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Charlie Hope Dorsey, of Carbondale, chants “hands up don’t shoot” while rallying Friday in Carbondale against the death of George Floyd.
Carbondale march

Kierra Greer addresses a crowd of demonstrators gathered Friday outside of Carbondale’s police department.
Carbondale march

Musician Courtlin Jabrae sings an original song during a march against police brutality Friday in Carbondale.
Carbondale march

Treyonne Rawls marches with fellow demonstrators Friday in Carbondale.
Carbondale march

Protestors march past graffiti Friday in Carbondale.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Jenna Gomez (left), of Cobden, and Jessica Moore, of Ullin, lead protesters down Davie Street in Anna during a rally on June 4 to protest the death of George Floyd, police brutality and racism.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Protesters march down Davie Street in Anna on Thursday as part of a rally in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Law enforcement officers keep an eye on protesters during a rally in Anna on Thursday in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Jenna Gomez, 18, of Cobden, leads chants Thursday in Anna during a rally protesting police brutality.
Anna protest: 'I'm not black but I mourn with you.'
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Some residents observe protesters from across Main Street in Anna on Thursday evening.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Residents along Davie Street look on as protesters march during a rally in response to the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis last week.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Onlookers Thursday in Anna during a protest against police brutality held in response to the death of George Floyd and other people of color who have died at the hands of police.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Police confront a man antagonizing protestors in Anna Thursday.
Nearly 200 protest in Anna
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Protesters kneel in honor of George Floyd, who died in police custody on Memorial Day in Minneapolis, during a rally on Thursday in Anna.
Carterville march

More than 100 protesters marched from Cannon Park to downtown Carterville on Wednesday evening in response to the death of George Floyd in police custody last week in Minneapolis.
Carterville march

Carterville Police officers kneel along with protesters as Chaise Miller, an auxiliary officer, leads the group in prayer on Wednesday evening in Carterville. More than 100 people turned out to march in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis on Memorial Day.
Carterville march

Korshawn Johnson (left), organizer of the march, speaks to protesters after they marched from Cannon Park to downtown Carterville on Wednesday evening in response to the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis last week.
Watch now: Protesters march in Carterville
Black Lives Matter Peaceful Protest in Carbondale

Dylan Lovel, Alexandria Stevens, Jesica Morrissey and Cassie Sarcinelli, all of Carbondale, gather in front of Sam’s Cafe to protest the death of George Floyd on Wednesday in Carbondale.
Black Lives Matter Peaceful Protest in Carbondale

Halee Sheraden and Dylan Lovel, both of Carbondale, gather in front of Sam’s Cafe to protest the death of George Floyd on Wednesday in Carbondale.
Black Lives Matter Peaceful Protest in Carbondale

A nearby resident screams at demonstrators Wednesday from his porch in Carbondale as demonstrators gather to protest the death of George Floyd, an African American man who died in police custody in Minnesota.
Black Lives Matter Peaceful Protest in Carbondale

A demonstrator shields his face from the sun while gathering in front of Sam’s Cafe in Carbondale to protest the death of George Floyd, an African American man who died in police custody in Minnesota.
Black Lives Matter Peaceful Protest in Carbondale

Demonstrators gather in front of Sam’s Cafe in Carbondale on Wednesday to protest the death of George Floyd, an African American man who died in police custody in Minnesota.
Daily protest

Andrea Gant displays signs to passing traffic along Main Street in downtown Carbondale on Tuesday in response to the death of George Floyd last week in Minneapolis. Gant plans on protesting daily and she said anyone is welcome to join her.
Demonstration in Marion

Protesters gather in Town Square Plaza on Tuesday evening in Marion in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis one week ago.
Demonstration in Marion

About 80 protesters took part in a relatively peaceful rally at Town Square Plaza in Marion on Monday evening in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis one week ago while in police custody. A minor skirmish broke out between a protester and motorcyclist observing the rally.
Demonstration in Marion

Marion Mayor Mike Absher observes protesters at Town Square Plaza on Monday evening as they rally in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis a week ago.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators march while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Natasha Miller, left, embraces her mother, Moana Miller, both of Cambria, as they mourn George Floyd's death during a vigil on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Chastity Mays, of Carbondale, speaks to community members on June 1, 2020, at a candlelight vigil in Carbondale to mourn the death of George Floyd.
Watch Now: Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Community members gather to mourn the death of George Floyd during a vigil on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators march while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators march while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators tape signs on the windows of the Carbondale Police Department while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators congregate outside of the Carbondale Police Department while mourning the death of George Floyd on during a demonstration Sunday in Carbondale.
Watch Now: Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators lie on the ground outside of SI Pawn while marching and mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators march while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators march while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Amanda Haaland, of Schaumburg, mourns George Floyd's death during a vigil on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Marquis Booker, of Carbondale, mourns George Floyd's death during a vigil Sunday in Carbondale.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Nicholas Tate of Du Quoin started out with a simple goal with his one-man protest Saturday: 100 honks in support of black lives.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Nicholas Tate and his dad, Ron Tate, at Saturday's protest in Du Quoin.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Tenielle Worthington and her father, Lamonte Mitchell, join a protest Saturday in Du Quoin to call attention to the killing of black people by law enforcement.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Protesters Ella Brock (top left), Shian Adams (bottom left), Amanda Mitchell (top right), Maci Collins (bottom right) join a protest Saturday in Du Quoin.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Cass Vandemere holds a Black Lives Matter sign made by Nicholas Tate at Saturday's protest in Du Quoin.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

What started as a very small protest of two people grew to about 20 by late Saturday afternoon.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Protesters in Du Quoin on Saturday join people from across the nation in calling for justice and equality for African Americans.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

A woman livestreams a speech by Meleah Mays during a candlelight vigil Sunday in Turley Park for George Floyd, an African American man who died in police custody in Minneapolis on Memorial Day.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Meleah Mays, of Carbondale, reads a poem about police brutality on Sunday, May 31, 2020, during a candlelight vigil in Turley Park for George Floyd, an African American man who died in police custody in Minneapolis on Memorial Day.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Carbondale community members mourn the death of George Floyd during a candlelight vigil Sunday at Lenus Turley Park in Carbondale.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Carbondale community members mourn the death of George Floyd during a candlelight vigil Sunday at Lenus Turley Park in Carbondale.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Carbondale community members mourn the death of George Floyd during a candlelight vigil at Lenus Turley Park on Sunday in Carbondale.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Carbondale community members mourn the death of George Floyd during a candlelight vigil Sunday at Lenus Turley Park in Carbondale.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Carbondale community members mourn the death of George Floyd during a candlelight vigil Sunday at Lenus Turley Park in Carbondale.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching through Lenus Turley Park Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching down West Main Street Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching down West Main Street Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching down West Main Street Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

People inside of a stopped car raise their fists in solidarity with demonstrators as they mourn the death of George Floyd during a march Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Watch Now: Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd during a demonstration on Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd during a march on Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died on Memorial Day in police custody after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching up Illinois Avenue Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching up Illinois Avenue Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died on Memorial Day in police custody after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Akiyah Moose, of Bush, Illinois, kneels with a candle on Sunday in Turley Park while mourning the death of George Floyd, an African American man died in police custody on Memorial in Minneapolis.