Calls for "justice, now," in Peoria

PEORIA -- Around 200 people marched in Peoria on July 20 to protest the acquittal of George Zimmerman in Trevon Martin's death, and to call for voting rights legislation to be restored.

"What do we want?  Justice.  When do we want it?  Now," the crowd cried.

A lively rally at the end of the march, at the Federal Courthouse in downtown Peoria saw recently elected City Council member Denise Moore and NAACP president Don Jackson speak strongly about the issues. 

They urged people to vote in 2014, and called for the repeal of Illinois' own 'stand your ground' law. They also focused on Peoria issues, asking the crowd to reach local gang members and teach them to settle their conflicts without violence.

They urged people to attend a 5 p.m. meeting on Sunday, July 21 at Glen Oak Park to continue the conversation. "It's called 'Occupy the Hood.'

Here are photos from the rally:

Marchers arrive at the Federal Courthouse

 

The crowd listens to speakers at the rally.

 

My take:  strong leaders spoke at the rally, and should be headed. Jackson mentioned the necessity of jobs for minorities, and said the NAACP is monitoring construction projects.

Amazingly, no TV cameras appeared at the event, though many people were taking photos with cameras and phones. Does the mainstream media think this will all go away if it's not given prominent coverage?  Are they right?

The minority, southside vote in Peoria can elect or throw out candidates, and should step up to this power and use it. 

  -- Elaine Hopkins

 

Comments

[Dennis in Peoria]

Elaine, I would have been there covering it, if PCCEO hadn't received cuts in federal funding; CAPtions is longer produced and aired, and funding for my job ended June 30th.