May 30, 2020
During Peace Conversation yesterday I invited people to join me in the Speedway parking lot across from Cup Food at the corner of Chicago Ave. and 38th St. to show your respect for George Floyd and protest the injustice of his murder. I will be there from 1 pm till at least 1:30 today, Sunday May 30. You can also come anytime that is convenient for you today or any day.
By showing up you are simply expressing your disapproval of the death of George Floyd. A protest is a peaceful assembly and not the same as a riot. A riot is a violent disturbance of the peace. The corner of Chicago and 38th St. is the center of the protest; no rioting has taken place there.
If you would like to come:
1) Before you come make sure it is safe for you. If you are part of the population that is at higher risk to contract Covid 19, do not come.
2) Bring and wear a mask as well as keeping 6 feet physical distance from others. It should be possible to keep appropriate physical distance in the Speedway parking lot. If there is not, find a different place to stand or leave if you are uncomfortable.
3) You will need to find a parking space on the street two or three blocks away.
4) Be alert to your surroundings.
5) The space has a sense of sacredness for the black communities. I know you will be respectful.
6) Bring a bouquet of flowers, or other symbol of respect, to leave at the intersection.
I will be wearing my Peace tie-dye T-shirt so you can find me and standing in or as close to the Speedway Parking lot as possible.
In Christ’s Love,
Gary Walpole
Pastor, Peace Community of Faith