#LightsForTheFight

There may be no games played, but several high school athletic fields across the area and the state will be lit up Friday night, between 8 p.m. and 8:20 p.m. as part of a nationwide movement during this COVID-19 pandemic quarantine. (The 20 minute time frame ending at 20:20 military time is especially significant for honoring our 2020 graduates.)

The initiative, known as Lights for the Fight, is not only in honor of senior student-athletes, but also as a show of support for healthcare workers, first responders, and all other essential workers on the “frontlines of the pandemic,” according to a statement issued by the Illinois High School Association.

Charleston will be participating in this tonight, but we want to remind everyone that due to the statewide quarantine measures, no one should gather at the school or fields while the lights are illuminated. The gesture is simply a sign of support. If you wish to drive by and honk or take a picture from your vehicle, that is fine.You can also show your support from home by turning on your porch lights from 8:00 - 8:20pm.

Participants are encouraged to share photos and videos on social media along with the hashtag #LightsForTheFight