Dupage Policy Journal

State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro recently expressed her concerns about the growing lack of civility and mutual respect in society, particularly among those with differing views. "I want to discuss my concerns with some things happening across our state and country," she said. She referenced recent news stories that highlight a worrying trend, including protests on college campuses and around O'Hare airport, as well as instances of foreign flags being flown above the American flag.

"In past weeks we have seen protests on college campuses, protestors swarming the highways around O’hare airport, and most concerning: the flags of foreign nations being flown above our own country’s flag…. A major display of disrespect," she stated. She emphasized that living in the United States necessitates respecting its symbols, asserting that flying a foreign nation's flag above the American one is "absolutely unacceptable."

Sanalitro also addressed the issue of protesters blocking access to roadways during demonstrations. To counter this problem, she cosponsored legislation that would make it a felony for protesters to obstruct first responders' access to roads during a protest. While acknowledging the importance of protecting free speech rights, she stressed the need for expressing opinions civilly.

"When you go out and protest on a busy roadway, you are running the risk of blocking emergency vehicles from keeping our communities safe, getting people help during a medical emergency, and even smaller – back to work on time," she warned.

Sanalitro concluded by reminding listeners that disagreement should not lead to demonization or accusations of evil intent. As a relatively new representative in Springfield representing DuPage and NW Cook county residents, she pledged to build a responsible voting record that her constituents can be proud of.

For more information or inquiries about her initiatives, State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro's district office can be reached at 630-349-0645. She represents House District 48 which includes Addison, Bensenville, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Elk Grove Village, Hanover Park, Itasca, Medinah, Roselle, Schaumburg, and Wood Dale in suburban DuPage and Cook counties.