CHICAGO – A Chicago city councilwoman is urging protesters at the Democratic National Convention not to camp overnight in Humboldt Park.

26th District Councilwoman Jessie Fuentes on Saturday released a letter she sent to the Poor People’s Army, a national protest group coming to Chicago.

Fuentes is urging the group to reconsider its plans for a protest encampment in Humboldt Park, citing “safety concerns” for the area’s homeless and the potential diversion of resources from those in need.

The councilwoman expressed understanding for the group’s goals and their right to protest, but believes that staying overnight in the park undermines their mission.

“This demonstration will add further stress to an already delicate situation. Our homeless neighbors need their community and city to address the issues that made them homeless in the first place. They need access to workforce, mental health services and permanent supportive housing,” Fuentes said. “We are willing to meet with your organization to discuss other alternatives to support our homeless neighbors.”

Fuentes’ letter also received support from 33rd District Councilwoman Rossana Rodriguez Sanchez, 25th District Councilman Carlos Ramirez-Rosa and several others.