Community 'Peace Walk' planned for Friday
By Rochelle Moore
Published in News on July 20, 2016 1:46 PM
Planning a community peace walk in downtown Goldsboro has evolved from its original intent due to the continued violence across the nation and world.
Caroline Clucas, an 18-year-old graduate of Wayne Early/Middle College High School, sought an outlet that would raise awareness of concern surrounding the deaths of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, African-American men who were fatally shot by police in early July. The deaths led to five Dallas police officers being shot, in an act of retaliation.
"The recent shootings have really shaken me," Clucas said. "I'm tired of turning on my TV and seeing hate and seeing shootings. I think it's important for us, as a community, to show our support to the world and show that we want peace."
The community peace walk will be held Friday, from 4-6:30 p.m., starting at the Cornerstone Commons downtown. Center Street, from Mulberry to Chestnut, will be closed during the walk and the intersections will remain open. Goldsboro police will provide some assistance during the walk, said Scott Stevens, Goldsboro city manager.
The event is planned to include live music and poetry, and Clucas plans to speak prior to the walk. The peace walk is not an act of protest but a way to remember the lives lost, she said.
"I think it'll help by showing that when we stand together, even as a small community, we have a voice, and we can show that voice to the world and show that we care and show that we are (supportive), even in times of cruelty," she said.
Clucas is promoting the event through social media, including a Facebook event page, Goldsboro Peace Walk. Fliers are also circulating in downtown and the city.