Councilman Josh McBroom of Naperville, an affluent suburb of Chicago, spoke out against spending government resources to accommodate migrants entering the Chicago area during a city council meeting.
McBroom recommended that people campaigning for more support for migrants should personally offer their roomy homes to asylum seekers and their families.
“At the risk of condoning the use of other people’s money for housing or aid, I believe there are caring people in our community. Before we take legal action against other communities, let’s find those who are prepared to assist,” McBroom suggested during Tuesday night’s meeting.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has been driving migrants to Chicago, ignoring local leaders’ reservations about the harsh winter conditions. Governor J.B. Pritzker voiced indignation in a letter to Abbott, highlighting the potentially fatal effects of sending refugees in sub-zero temperatures.
Naperville, an affluent suburb with an average home price of more than $500,000, has emerged as a focal point in this dispute. McBroom suggested creating a sign-up form for residents wanting to host migrant families. He stressed the affluence of the neighborhood while promoting compassion.
“We have a very affluent community, a lot of big homes,” McBroom explained. “God bless those who are willing to do that.” Let’s promote awareness and find out who is willing to house migrant families.
The plan elicited reactions on social media, with some seeing it as a courteous challenge to wealthy activists. Others admired McBroom’s unique approach but questioned whether he would be the first to sign up.
Beverly Pekala, an Illinois attorney, shared the notion on social media, prompting a variety of comments. Some commenters applauded the proposal, arguing that Naperville’s liberal citizens might demonstrate their kindness by offering their homes to migrants.
One X user inquired: “Is he the first name on the signup list?”
Republican Chicago talk radio host and former gubernatorial candidate Dan Proft responded, “You’re missing the point. It’s a courteous challenge to Chardonnay Antifa in town. Pay close attention.
The word “Chardonnay Antifa” is connected with privilege, wealth, and elitism. It is used to describe those who engage in activism but do so from a risk-free position of ease and luxury.
This unique plan comes as Chicago strives to manage migrant drop-offs, with busses unloading at outlying Metra stations.
Six buses carrying migrants have stopped in Naperville since December 21, prompting residents to voice worries and urge for preventive measures to avoid being stuck funding them like other communities, particularly Chicago.