The growing chorus chanting “Black Lives Matter” increases by the day, uniting people in the streets of America, demanding justice. In that same vein, local clergy took to the streets Sunday, June 14, 2020 calling for a Solidarity Sunday in response to an increase of police violence against Black people.
Throughout the day, pastors preached virtually in a variety of “I Can’t Breathe” t-shirts, and others with a variety of grassroots slogans before meeting up at Eastmont Mall to begin their car caravan to Frank Ogawa Plaza, lead by members of the Wise Guys Motorcycle Club.
Frank Ogawa Plaza was filled with hundred during the day’s program, which included prayers and messages from local pastors, families and mothers who have lost their children to violence, and gospel entertainment.
The Oakland Black Police Officers Association was also on hand to support and walk alongside the community as they marched from Frank Ogawa Plaza to the Oakland Police Station at the close of the program.
The goal of the day was to take action in the fight against social injustice and racial inequality. “The challenge is for us, the church and faith-based leaders in our community to unite in solidarity for social justice against the evil of racism and oppression and to denounce hatred and injustice everywhere it shows up. Silence is not an option,” said Rev. Martin (Marty) Peters, Pastor of Victory Baptist Church (Oakland, CA) and event coordinator.
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