A group of protesters representing Chicago black churches and non-profit youth organizations on Monday demanded access to the Illinois Youth Center in St. Charles, alleging “inhumane” conditions.

“Minority children are identified as more problematic, but we are concerned about all of these children and that they are treated properly while in custody,” said the Rev. Gregory Daniels of Marble Rock Missionary Baptist Church.

The protesters said they wanted to see for themselves whether allegations of poor conditions were true.

But they were turned away at the metal security door by a Youth Center superintendent because they did not get the required clearance for entry into a state-supported facility.

“You have to make a call to make arrangements,” Superintendent Bobby Moore told them at the door.

The group of 15 protesters said they would be back and then boarded their chartered bus for the return trip home.

Source: Linda Girardi, Sun-Times Media