Shelaswau Crier of Salem speaks during the End White Silence event at the Capitol on Saturday, June 13. (Amanda Loman/Salem Reporter)
Several hundred protesters turned out Saturday at the Capitol for another rally aimed at pressing for social and political change in Oregon and the country.
“End White Silence” featured a series of speakers and then was scheduled for a march to Salem City Hall. Organizers said the event was intended to help dismantle “the racist systems that have divided our country by keeping the black community at a disadvantage for far too long.”
The rally was organized by Julianne Jackson, Ari Woods and Brandy Woods.
Ari Woods, who is white, said he and his wife’s role in organizing the event was intended to create a platform for black voices. They were motivated to participate because they have a mixed-race son, Kamil, who could be a target of racial profiling.
Saturday’s demonstration was the latest in Salem and across the country triggered by the Memorial Day death of George Floyd of Minneapolis. Four police officers have been charged in connection with his murder.
Ashley Mott of Monmouth holds up a sign during the End White Silence rally at the Capitol on Saturday, June 13. (Amanda Loman/Salem Reporter)
Demonstrators gather in front of the Capitol as part of the End White Silence rally on Saturday, June 13. (Amanda Loman/Salem Reporter)
A full report on the event is coming from a news team from Salem Reporter.
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