Peace rally inspiring

Spokane’s rally for peace following the tragedy in Charlottesville embodied the best of Spokane. The setting, The Spokane Tribal Gathering Place on the banks of the Spokane River, honored native people, the first residents. City Hall, adjacent, added the dimension of the rest of us coming to Spokane to live, work and create community.

We’ve had successes and failures, learning together to stand firm in our commitment to one another, unity. Mercy Aguilar organized and facilitated the event to include all, from youth to seniors, ministers to atheists, people of all colors and heritages, able and differently able. All were welcomed. Tony Randle spoke first, saying his mom told him his life matters and hate is bad. Dozens of young people followed Tony, sharing their diverse perspectives, challenging us to join together to solve the challenges in our midst. Not one is willing to give up hope; and most powerful is their understanding we are all one, including those who are engaged in the hate filled speech and behavior.

One young man stated, we must talk with them, include them, engage them in connection and community to come to unity as neighbors, as a city, as a nation. Spokane can!

Elaine Tyrie

Spokane