Albert Morr and his wife Claudia attended the Tuesday night Champaign City Council meeting to address the increasing gun violence in the City. Morr described a recent shooting incident on University Avenue which resulted in one or more bullets penetrating the front window of their home.
The Morrs went on to express concern for their family’s safety and that of their neighbors and the children playing outside, noting that Champaign Police found 35 shell casings from this one shooting incident.
Instead of receiving sympathy and concern from the Council, after taking their seats, the Morrs were berated for nearly two minutes straight by Council member Alicia Beck, along with Council member Michael Foellmer. Beck told the Morrs not to come back.
It is unclear what invited such a harsh lecture – or perhaps “moral grandstanding” may better describe the fury that Beck rained down upon the unsuspecting couple.
The Morrs, who grew up in the same neighborhood, have lived in their current home for 48 years. Mr. Morr said the shooting on their street made them feel “violated and angry”. He applauded the Council for passing a recent gun violence program, and he stressed the importance of social programs to provide opportunities for young people who are engaged in shooting violence.
“It really has to stop,” said Morr.
Alicia Beck issued her tirade moments later, while pounding her fist on the table.
“Gun violence is not new to our community.”
“Until you come in because somebody else’s neighborhood is being shot up, I don’t want to hear it! I want you to come in because you’re concerned that black and brown babies are being shot in the street. And that’s what I want to hear. Period.”
Albert Morr tried to approach the podium to issue a response to Beck, but Mayor Deborah Feinen turned him away. Michael Foellmer spoke up to agree with Beck, and the other Council members remained quiet on the issue.
Video of the Morr & Beck exchange at the February 15th City Council meeting can be seen below (Check CU has edited down the Morrs’ commentary, which exceeded five minutes. The full Council video can be seen here, and the Morrs speak at the 45 minute mark).
Beck and Foellmer need to be removed from the council. Their berating a citizen, a constituent is unacceptable. Shame shame shame on them for not listening to all. Racism is alive and well on the Champaign City Council.