Dupage Policy Journal

Kristina McCloy, founder of the Concerned Parents of Hinsdale, a local civic group advocating for the families of Hinsdale, expressed concern over the recent influx of migrants into the area and its potential impact on local families. 

Screenshot of Kristina's post in the group's Facebook Pagee | Concerned Parents of Hinsdale Facebook page

McCloy stated, "The recent busload dumps (of migrants) into our community over the past week or so has elicited some visceral reactions from both sides of the aisle". She continued by expressing her belief in open dialogue as a cornerstone of a well-functioning society: "This has been great, as I believe that open dialogue is the key to a well functioning society". Explaining her initiative, she said, "I started this group as a way for like-minded people to share local news that affects their community and children."

According to an article by Patch, migrant busloads from the southern border have been dropped off at Metra stations in Hinsdale and surrounding communities. This development follows Chicago's enactment of a provision that prohibits buses carrying migrants from entering city limits unless they comply with new restrictions.

As reported by The Hinsdalean, more than 10 busloads of migrants have been dropped off in Hinsdale in just two weeks. On January 2nd, the Village of Hinsdale convened a special meeting where trustees passed an ordinance designed to manage this influx. The ordinance mandates bus companies to apply with the Hinsdale Police Chief at least five days before an intended departure date. Non-compliance results in a fine of $750 per passenger and potential impounding of the bus.

McCloy, who founded Concerned Parents of Hinsdale, voiced her concerns on Facebook on December 30th. In addition to leading this group, she serves as a wife and mother in her community and sits on the Board of Trustees for Downers Grove Township, according to the official website of Downers Grove Township.

NBC Chicago reports that migrant transportation to Chicago and its surrounding communities began in April 2022. This was a response to the Texas Governor's disagreement with the Biden administration’s efforts to rescind a Title 42 order. This protective measure enables the United States to deny entry to asylum seekers. The Texas Governor argued that "President Biden’s inaction at our southern border continues putting the lives of Texans – and Americans – at risk and is overwhelming our communities".

The Concerned Parents of Hinsdale, as McCloy describes it, serves "as a way for like-minded people to share local news that affects their community and children". Interested individuals can join this Facebook group via the Concerned Parents of Hinsdale Facebook page.