There was standing room only at St. Francis of Rome school in Cicero late Sunday, as the diverse crowd from all parts of Chicagoland met to present their plan for "Re-imagining" Illinois to Governor Pat Quinn.

The four groups represented: United Power for Action and Justice, Public Action for Change Today, Lake County United and DuPage United encompassed the gamit of faith groups from Islam to Catholicism. But despite their disparate beliefs, their message was united and clear: We need a fundamental change in Illinois government and now is the time to achieve it.

Through speeches and personal testimonials, the participants explained what they called their five pillars for re-imagining Illinois:

Rooting out the culture of corruption, nepotism and political dynasties;

Fiscal responsibility and adequate revenues; Fair and progressive taxation;

Priorities for people--especially those who are hurting in the current economic crisis--over politics as usual and

New and diverse faces, especially those of young adults, in state and local government.

In his remarks, Quinn agreed with the priorities but said that he will need a great deal of support to enact legislation to accomplish these goals against the wishes of special interests. Quinn pledged to meet with the group again tentatively set for Sunday, May 30th, Memorial Day weekend.

Listen to the entire forum through the link below.

chicago.indymedia.org/media/all/display/32338/index.php