Rev. Paul Jakes wants delegates to see "the other NATO" when they come to Chicago this weekend: the "Neglected, Abused, Totally Overlooked" sections of the city.
"We want them to see more than the suites," said Jakes of New Tabernacle of Faith Baptist Church on the West Side. "Also the streets of Chicago."
Jakes led small groups on one-block tours around the church, pointing out at least six abandoned homes in poor condition.
People anti-NATO groups were seen on the tour as well as anti-war members from Ireland and Germany. Jakes said he wanted to show them a whole other sign of Chicago beyond downtown hotels and the Magnificent Mile.
"This is NATO," he said.
At least four overgrown, empty lots were seen on the tour, and Rev. Jakes said the area hasn't recovered since 1968.
A woman from an anti-war/ violence group in Ireland said she's very interested in what's going on in Chicago streets. She's one of several people from various countries in town to see how the rest of the world is feeling and living.
