Feeling the need to join together as a community after the traumatic and racially charged shootings in early summer, Philly Children’s March families gathered together to break bread and affirm our commitment to racial justice and healing.
New Covenant’s sweeping fields in Mt. Airy offered a backdrop for families to take time to mourn, heal, play, and strategize. After sharing a meal together, there was a moment of silence, followed small group discussions about ways to combat racism and proclaim community affirmations about the power we each hold within us.
Our guiding question was, “What can you do with the power you have right now?”
“Speak up when I see hate, fear, or anger.”
“White folks call out white people on their racism.”
“Talk to white people about the lies and fight for change.”
“Take time to listen to other people.”
“Advocate for non-racist laws and policies on all levels.”
“Love each other.”
“Notice others. REALLY notice.”
“Share and teach multiple histories, stories, perspectives, narratives.”
“Protest.”
“Let my light shine.”
Kids as young as two years old took to the mic to let everyone hear how they would let their light shine for justice. It was a simple, but powerful community event.
The pictures tell the story best: