If you haven’t noticed, Shreveport has a movement with building momentum and support which is slated to change not just the city, but the whole region. If you frequent any social media, you have likely seen the numerous pictures from rallies and demonstrations captioned with hashtags such has “#SaveThe318” and “#NoMoreRIPs.” While we have had countless demonstrations that have proven to be fly-by-night operations, the organizers of the recent efforts insist that these will stand as they attack the heart of the human condition and not just emotional sensationalism.
One organizer is Chalyashvoy Roberson whose Sunday May 22nd City-Wide Prayer on the City Courthouse lawn transcended race and united people of all backgrounds. “This is actually our third Stop the Violence rally,” Roberson began. “I have a group called the ‘Chalyashvoy Project’ which focuses on feeding the homeless, speaking against domestic violence, and helping our communities. I’m always very devoted and active; when I see something negative, I attack it with something positive going on.” With the help of the lawyers for domestic violence cases, all these cases are taken to the knowledge of the court to get resolved and given proper judgement to all the victims who suffered in this society. When asked why she orchestrated her event she said “to give knowledge back to the youth that this killing is senseless.”
Amongst the fifty or so attendees were two fathers who personally know just how “senseless” the killing in our area is: Roger Richard and Eric Lindsey Sr.
Roger Richard lost his son mysteriously in 2014 and felt it a duty to attend. “I came to support the people and the ones that have been wronged, the families. The ‘vow of silence’ has to stop. I came pretty much to support life.” His friend Merilyn Morris shared his views: “there’s time for a change. When everyone comes together to make a change and support, change happens.”
Eric Lindsey Sr. lost his son to gun violence, in retaliation to a young man not receiving $10, just a few weeks ago. He has not allowed his grief to tarnish his culturally proud spirit. “I address young black men for real. The ones people won’t deal with because they’re scared of them. I provide opportunity for them.” His one piece of advice to the youth: “Learn yourself. Learn who you are. Once you figure out who you are, you will be surprised.”
The theme for that day and the rally that you can watch (almost) entirely on the Heliopolis page and surely the rallies coming up (that I will give you the details about at the end): Unity.
Racial lines have been erased at these rallies. Socio-economic barriers have been torn down. Progressive dialogue has ensued. Answers have been offered. Even empathy has been extended from one grieving family to the next. Roger Richard commented on Lindsey’s devastating loss, “if that man had came and seen me, I would’ve gave him $20 not to do it.”
Of course, every positive effort will have opposition. However, this movement is not stopping any time soon. There is another gathering tomorrow. It is open to the public.
“Enough is Enough” Rally
Saturday, June 4 @ 10:00 a.m.
Praise Temple Full Gospel Baptist Cathedral
4725 Greenwood Rd, Shreveport, LA 71109