In response to correspondence received from the Peoria Branch of the NAACP last week, the Peoria Park District expresses regret that comments made as part of the Board of Trustees meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 2, raised concerns from the NAACP.

It was not the intent of the District or any of its representatives to in any way assert that the NAACP is a political party. Further, the commentary was not meant to suggest that Juneteenth is a political event.

The Peoria Park District sincerely values the productive partnership that it has with the local branch of the NAACP and expresses appreciation to its leaders who have given of their time to support District efforts as part of its Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility. The District, and its leadership, look forward to continuing to partner to actively work to make Peoria a great place to live for all.