Last Sunday the Together We Can gathering took place in Oil City's Justus Park. It was a peaceful chance to share ideas about humanity while honoring the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others who have lost their lives to systemic brutality. Several speakers eloquently delivered meaningful words to the well over 100 people scattered through the park.
The community of people, affected by the events of the country, took a moment to reflect on what it all means to them in this time and in this place.
Among the speakers was Major Smith, a well known area black man who headed the county's jail system at one time. He spoke about overcoming his own personal racism as he grew to understand the premise of strength, kindness and honesty in his everyday life. He told a story about using racial slurs himself before a friend made him understand his words and meanings did not truly reflect the person he is. He openly shared his shame of that time in his life.
Young people were also given a strong voice in this vigil of hope and remembrance. Several essayists from Venango Catholic spoke. Former students like Jenna Ronchi, who read Maya Angelo's words and Josh Puleo who told of personally being taught great lessons from a friend of color.
The event included a silent walk around Oil City followed by a short candlelight prayer to end the evening.
Editor's note: This event. like many others in the area begs the question, What's next? Here at Eight and 322 we are asking ourselves the same question. We will be going over this in a series of Op/Ed pieces and stories in the coming weeks.
Editor's note: This event. like many others in the area begs the question, What's next? Here at Eight and 322 we are asking ourselves the same question. We will be going over this in a series of Op/Ed pieces and stories in the coming weeks.
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