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Bloomington- Normal NIOT leaders responded quickly when a news feed sent out a notice marking candidates they didn't like with a star of David next to their names. As the group notes in their press release, this was "straight out of the Nazi playbook."  By Mike Matejka- NIOT Bloomington-Normal, IL  Vigilance toward hateful signs and symbols is important.  In Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, BlnNews, often posts misleading information.  With Illinois's April 1 municipal elections coming, this site posted a sample ballot, with a Star of David next to the candidates it does not approve. Rather than ignoring this, Not In Our Town Bloomington-Normal issued a public statement condemning this use because it is replete with antisemitic and Nazi tactics. It was important to do this because tolerating inappropriate symbolic use sends a message that this is acceptable.  It was also important to let our Jewish neighbors know that Not In Our Town "has their back" and will step forward to call activities like this out, reiterating a message to the community that this is unacceptable. The Star of David has no place in local electioneering.

How can young people help lead a movement to fight hate in their schools and communities? That question is being answered in Pittsburgh as 25 schools across Allegheny County adopt year-long action plans for students to address hate and foster belonging.