A Champaign City Council member is facing backlash after posting a swastika on his personal Facebook page, prompting strong condemnation from his colleagues.
Davion Williams, who was elected in 2021 to represent the northern part of the city, changed his profile picture to the antisemitic symbol on Friday and later defended his use of the image, according to a statement from Champaign Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen and the other council members.
“This blatant display and disregard for the values we uphold as a City is unacceptable,” the officials stated. “His posts and comments were reckless, and we strongly condemn them. We refuse to allow his statements to reflect our City organization or our community.”
City Officials Denounce Hate Symbol
The statement was co-signed by council members Alicia Beck, Jamar Brown, Michael Foellmer, Matthew Gladney, Will Kyles, Vanna Pianfetti, and Kathy Shannon. The officials emphasized their commitment to combating hate and discrimination, stating, “We cannot be silent today! We stand and loudly affirm our commitment to denounce hate at every turn and speak truth and acknowledge the pain of our diverse community members who still suffer due to hate and discrimination.”
Williams has not responded to requests for comment.
Champaign, home to the University of Illinois’ flagship campus, has a diverse population, and city leaders say they are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful community.