Hundreds marched for peace in the wake of the terrorist attack in Charleston, South Carolina, where 9 black church goers were gunned down during a bible study by a white supremacist terrorist. In addition to the unarmed, black men and women killed by police, activists spoke on violence within their communities and the need to fill the streets with love and unity. Chants of “It’s family members, not family feuds. You stand with me, I’ll stand with you.” could be heard echoing through the streets.

Musicians, activists, community leaders and clergy spoke about the need for peace in their communities, the fear of losing loved ones, the importance of women in the movement, and recognizing those still suffering in the LGBTQ community. Sheley Secrest from the NAACP spoke to the crowd and said “Understand this is more than a hashtag, understand this is more than a moment, this is a movement.”

The demonstration took the streets in front of the Seattle Police Department Headquarters where officers could be seen keeping an eye on the protest as it moved to Westlake Park where activists held Pike and 4th until marching to Myrtle Edwards Park. Seattle Police blocked streets and officers on bicycles escorted the crowd but no arrests were made.

From the event Facebook page…

“United Gang Member’s (active/un-active/affiliated) of Seattle have came together, and decided that they will peacefully march in solidarity with our brothers, and sisters, and other black organizations across the nation.

We are Tired of waking up to black men, women, children dead because of violence in our community, or police brutality.

Join us, and let’s let our voices be heard! United WE stand, divided WE fall!

***DETAILS***

We will be meeting at the Seattle Police Department Headquarters downtown. We will hold actions/demonstrate for higher police accountability. We will then hold actions/demonstrate in front of City Hall for more accountability from the Mayor, and the City.

Then we will march to Myrtle Edwards Park map to hold a memorial for our beloved love one’s who have lost a life due to violence, and also hold a community accountability action/demonstration, and a “releasing of balloons ceremony” in memory of our people.

***This event may change routes/times/locations, and etc. Please stay tuned for more, and spread widely. All people are encouraged to come support don’t be discouraged if you are not black, or gang affiliated.***

For more information email: UnitedHoodMarchSeattle@gmail.com”

– United Hood March Seattle