North Cook News

Ron Onesti, president and CEO of Onesti Entertainment, canceled an Awake Illinois event after allegations the parents' rights advocacy is a “hate group.” 

Despite his actions, Onesti said he is a supporter of free speech. Still, he caved to threats from those seeking to cancel the event. 

“I do not take sides,” Onesti said in a written statement as reported by the Chicago Tribune. “What saddens me was the amount of hate that surfaced during all of this.“ 

Des Plaines Alderman Carla Brookman struggled to speak amid activist interruptions at a recent council meeting. Brookman was interrupted several times during her defense of the event. “This demonstrates the lack of tolerance that you people are demonstrating,” Brookman said during a city council meeting. “It shows a real lack of tolerance for opposing opinions, viewpoints, or even conversation and discussion.”

The Coalition for Kids event was set to be held on Feb. 8 at the Des Plaines Theatre. “A diverse group of advocates gather together to transform the conversation on issues affecting children. $5 donation covers security for the event. Pizza and drinks may be purchased at the theater,” Awake Illinois said on its website. The list of speakers includes WVON’s Black Excellence Hour host P Rae, former U.S. Senate candidate and owner of WKCG -AM Matt Dubiel, Chair of Moms for Liberty Lake CountyMarsha McClary, award-winning Latino author Dr. Robert Renteria, member of the New Federal State of ChinaPrince Li, Vandana Jhingan with TV ASIA’s Midwest Bureau, founder of Gays against Groomers Jaimee Mitchell, former Lt. Governor candidate Stephanie Trussell, founder of Awake Illinois Shannon Adcock, and GOP Precinct Committeemen District 141 Terry Newsome.

Many came to the defense of Awake Illinois in the wake of the cancellation. “This is not a hate group it's people who are concerned about what is being pushed down our throats and how are children being brainwashed with LBGQT views,” Donna Meyers said on Facebook. “You speak about hate groups ...what about all the hate mail and threats of violence the theater owner received. Being conservative and holding on to traditional values does not make you a hate group!!!! I pay my share of Des Plaines taxes as well and all groups should be able to have a platform even if you disagree with it.”