NIU, Kishwaukee College and local community leaders will hold a Unity Rally for a State Budget 11 a.m. Thursday in the Barsema Alumni and Visitors Center, according to an NIU news release.

The rally is being held to draw attention to the effects of the ongoing budget impasse in Springfield, according to the news release. Illinois is in the eighth month of operating without a budget.

NIU President Doug Baker, Kishwaukee College President Laurie Borowicz and DeKalb Mayor John Rey, among others, are scheduled to speak at the rally, according to the news release.

Contact NIU Spokesman Joe King at 815-753-4299 for more information.