'So Many Have Grieved': Group To Hold Protest For AJ Freund

WOODSTOCK, IL — A local group will come together June 18 outside the McHenry County Courthouse in an effort to keep the memory of 5-year-old AJ Freund alive, while also pushing for justice to be served less than two months after he was found dead, and his parents were indicted on first-degree murder charges. McHenry County resident Tracy Kotzman, the organizer of ROAR for AJ — a group created for those committed to have an impact on the judicial system's handling of DCFS procedures — is leading the peaceful Woodstock protest on June 18 at 2200 N. Seminary Avenue.

The silent demonstration will run from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.; the same morning AJ's parents, JoAnn Cunningham and Andrew Freund Sr. have court appearances scheduled, according to the group.

This will be the second protest event this month, as ROAR for AJ put on a protest Tuesday, June 4 outside the Woodstock Department of Children and Family Services building, 113 Newell St., Woodstock.

"Tuesday’s demonstration went fairly well despite the weather and considering it is during the week when many have to be at work," Kotzman told Patch. "Anytime people — no matter the amount — can come together peacefully, to support one another in a common cause, makes for a good outcome."

According to a post by Kotzman on the ROAR for AJ Facebook page, the upcoming event outside the courthouse is aimed at "putting pressure on the judicial system to be sure Justice (sic) is served for AJ," Kotzman wrote.

The demonstrations are another way for the community to get involved, according to Kotzman.

"The upcoming one is also for people who would like to come to the court but may not be able to get inside the courtroom, as McHenry county court rooms are very small," Kotzman added.

Kotzman emphasized the demonstrations ROAR for AJ puts together are “peaceful.”

"We want to help initiate change and seek Justice, but we do not want to disturb or interfere with those who still need to focus on the important jobs they have to do," Kotzman said. "Any and everyone is invited and welcome to participate in the demonstrations. You do not need to be a member of ROAR for AJ to come out and have your voice heard."

Related: Groups Petition For Changes To DCFS Following AJ Freund's Death

In addition to protesting, ROAR members have written letters to elected officials and have shared information to help others do the same. Kotzman encourages people who are committed to making a difference and are willing to actively participate in seeing that AJ gets justice, according to a post on the Facebook group.

• Police Release Initial Report in AJ Freund Case
• AJ Freund Died Three Days Before He Was Reported Missing: Report

Among the information shared in the group in an effort to help others get involved include a pre-written letter draft to elected officials, tips on how to make (what to include) in protest signs, polls encourage group member feedback, t-shirt orders and more.

"We ask that participants in the demonstrations make and bring their own sign, as the signs are how we use our voices," Kotzman said. "There is no profanity and no shouting during these demonstrations. We want to bring attention and make our point, but we want to do so in a respectful manner."

Authorities believe Freund died on April 15, three days before he was reported missing, according to court documents. Cunningham, 36, and Freund, 60, are charged with his murder and are being accused of forcing their son to stay in a cold shower for an extended period and beat him, which lead to the young boy's death.

"I am impressed at how everyone has come together as a group from the day AJ was reported missing," Kotzman said. "Organizing search parties, sharing his"missing" reports through social media, holding candlelight vigils, making and handing out ribbons, and holding on to hope and lighting his way home. After learning what happened to AJ, so many have grieved over such a beautiful life taken by those who should have protected him at any cost. It’s just so sad and beyond comprehension."

While Kotzman encourages community members to continue pushing for justice for Freund in any way they can, she believes demonstrations are one of the very best ways to keep Freund's story in the public eye. She said public outcry is a way to be seen, and an action that lets the judicial system and lawmakers know community members are watching.

“Sunlight is the best disinfectant,” Kotzman said, quoting former associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, Louis Dembitz Brandeis.