(WBBM NEWSRADIO) – A youth curfew at Millennium and Maggie Daley parks is being criticized by a park advocate.
As a way to curb youth violence and disturbances, anyone under 18 was banned from entering Millennium and Maggie Daley parks after 6 p.m. from Tuesdays through Sundays unless they were accompanied by an adult.
Lori Lightfoot ordered the curfew in May 2022 when she was mayor.
Leslie Recht is president of the Grant Park Advisory Council, which also focuses on Maggie Daley Park.
She says the curfew is a bad idea.
“Because there are so many activities for youth to participate in, in the parks. If you have two 17 year olds who want to go and play mini golf or tennis or roller skate in Maggie Daley Park, this rule would preclude that, and we believe that doesn't make sense,” Recht said.
She also says it's better to encourage youth to visit the parks rather than keeping them out.
“Of course, if the mayor needs to put in a special curfew, there are things happening downtown, we understand. Our concern, a blanket curfew, really restricts the use of park facilities by youth, and we believe it should be reconsidered.”
Block Club Chicago reports Mayor Brandon Johnson has said the park curfew does not align with his vision for youth, but he did not commit to lifting it.
A spokesperson for the Chicago Park District said the curfew helps to foster a safe and positive environment.
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