On Saturday many Crawfordsville residents took part in a peaceful protest on the grounds of Lane Place. This response to the murder of George Floyd in Minnesota drew a good number of people, speaking in their hearts by their presence for justice. After two speakers, the group marched to Pike Place led by a woman carrying the mobile peace pole.
As an 88-year-old resident here, I was deeply moved to participate in this meaningful protest. I was inspired by the young present. They came to bear witness for all of us and lend support to the African- American community. Black Americans have had a most painful, long history of lack of acceptance, horrific abuse and murders. The history books taught us about segregation. Martin Luther King Jr. tried to teach us about equality. Yet, we continue to weep at deaths by some police officers who are a stain on their noble profession. The list of those who have been killed is long … far too long. Often they are killed with one crime only — being guilty of being black.
How inspiring it is to know a small town like ours would rally to seek justice for Floyd. Sadly, we remember too many, other deaths of black men and women before Floyd … year after year after year. Yet, Crawfordsville spoke out. What a blessing to live in this community.
You and I — no matter our ethnicity — have an opportunity to fight racism. Will we speak out? Are we ready and willing to work for change?
The time is now to restore equal rights for every citizen.
Nancy S. Coyle
Crawfordsville
