Peoria just passed a law that puts peaceful protest at risk—and it could take effect in a matter of days.

On October 15, 2025, the Peoria City Council unanimously passed a new “nuisance gathering” ordinance. The law allows police to order groups of 10 or more people to disperse and issue fines if two or more listed offenses are present—including vague or low-level charges like disorderly conduct, trespassing, or illegal parking. Anyone at the gathering could be fined or charged for police response—even if they weren’t the one breaking the law.

City leaders say this is about curbing dangerous activity. But civil rights advocates warn it could easily be used to suppress protests, vigils, or community gatherings—especially in moments of public unrest. Even Peoria City Councilmember Mike Vespa, who voted for the ordinance, said it could be used against both pro-life protesters and those demanding justice for Sonya Massey. The ACLU of Illinois has also raised concerns, warning that it may allow people to be punished for the actions of others.

The ordinance hasn’t gone into effect yet—but it will, just 10 days after publication. That means upcoming protests, including the “No Kings” rally and another Justice for Sonya Massey demonstration, could be at risk of disruption under the new rules.

This ordinance gives law enforcement broad discretion to decide which protests are allowed to continue. It may not have been passed with the intent to target peaceful assembly—but it creates a tool that could do exactly that.

We call on the Peoria City Council to amend this ordinance immediately to protect First Amendment rights. No law should punish peaceful protesters for what someone else in the crowd does. And no city should make it harder for residents to raise their voices in public.

Add your name if you believe protest is a right—not a nuisance.