Nicholas Conservatory Going Dark to Show They Condemn Racism

In the midst of a vital race movement sweeping our nation, I feel Rockford is taking the necessary steps to truly hear what the black community is saying.

City leaders are supporting peaceful protests, and they will begin a series of public listening sessions next week to find the best way to usher in change.

Last week the Rockford Park District released a powerful statement of support for the fight against racism, but during last night's Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners meeting, the board announced they will be taking their support one step further on a very significant day next week. According to their press release;

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens (NCG), 1354 N. 2nd Street, Rockford, will experience a special blackout at dusk on June 19, 2020.  The NCG marquee will not be lit, and any extra lights will be turned off as a symbolic gesture that the District condemns racism and inequality.  June 19th is a significant date as it is also Juneteenth or Freedom Day which marks the effective end of slavery in the United States.

I truly believe in turbulent times, the simplest displays of support can be the most powerful, and next week's blackout at the Nicholas Conservatory will definitely be something unlike we've ever seen before.

I feel the winds of change coming. Just be patient, kind, and understanding until that day comes, Rockford.

Catch Lil Zim on ‘Q98.5 Mornings with Lil Zim & JB’ on Q98.5 from 6:00 a.m. to 10 a.m. Follow her on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook