Today's March for voter rights in Winston-Salem, NC, was both empowering and inspirational. I'm fortunate to have been a part of it, along with a solid contingent of Kossacks. I've brought back pictures and video, so come along and enjoy!
We arrived as folks were starting to gather in Corpening Plaza, and had no problem finding our people.
L-R Gordon20024, DawnN, Lamont Cranston, joieau, randallt
TexDem and randallt
As 5:00 approached, buses steadily delivered hundreds of marchers. This is a view of the plaza that I managed to snap from a media perch before being shooed away.
The march began just after five, and it was a sight to behold! DKos kept our signs held high, and a few people approached hubby and I to say they read here every day.
We were near the front of the march, which covered 10 blocks. There was a heavy law enforcement presence, but all we encountered were friendly and the vibe was peaceful. It WAS hot, low 90's with high humidity. There was plenty of free water available and everyone was sharing.
davehouck and joieau enjoying a laugh along the way
Passing the courthouse:
I don't do crowd estimates, but three city blocks packed with marchers was a beautiful thing to see.
Volunteers were handing out signs to those who didn't have them. This is the one I had, and it turned out to be a theme for the evening.
After the march, we reassembled in the plaza and the Rev. Dr. William Barber took the stage. It was the first time I've heard him speak, and the limited acoustics were no match for the power of his message. He spoke of the blood that has been shed for voting rights and civil rights. There is power in the blood, and we will not lose the progress gained through that blood. I'll leave you with an excerpt.
Chris Reeves posted an earlier diary with more photos.
Forward together, not one step back!
Update 7/14/15, 17:00EDT. Here are links to TexDem and eeff's excellent diaries on the march. Both have some amazing photos, and each offers a unique perspective on the day.