Dayton mayor asks public to stay out of downtown during KKK rally

In a new video message, Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley is asking community members to avoid downtown during a KKK-affiliated group's rally on Saturday.

“Extremists such as this hate group are not interested in a conversation and try to use these events to provoke responses from the crowd,” Whaley said.

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The city wants to keep everyone in the community safe, and community members should respond to this attack on its values by celebrating what makes Dayton great, Whaley said.

Hate is not a Dayton value — diversity, peace, unity and love are some of the community’s biggest strengths, she said.

Everyone in the community deserves be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, place of birth, ancestry, national origin, martial status, sexual orientation, gender identify or disability, Whaley said.

City officials and some community leaders also have asked people to steer clear of downtown because they say the Honorable Sacred Knights of Indiana are coming to town to try to provoke a reaction.

MORE: Dayton police discuss Klan rally security; city urges people to stay away

Demonstrations downtown will cause some disruptions, including detoured bus service and the closure of the Dayton Metro Library’s main facility.

Citizens can learn more about Saturday's rally by visiting www.daytonohio.gov/may25.

RELATED: Groups like the KKK preach white power but shun 'hate' label

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