KANSAS CITY, Mo. — As the Unity March on Wednesday headed west toward the Country Club Plaza, another group of protesters was waiting at the intersection of Emanuel Cleaver II Boulevard and Main Street. Those demonstrators said they don't want unity with the police until changes are made.
"We’re here to say if you’re not going to change anything, we’re not going home,” Marnie, an anti-unity protester, said. “That’s the bottom line. This won’t be over until fundamental changes happen.”
Unity marchers said they want to work with police to create that change.
"I’ve talked to a few [officers] just one on one as they are dispersed among the crowd, which I think is awesome,” Cheryl Madrigal said. “They listened. I think they heard what I had to say and I was appreciative of that.”
While these protesters believe in different methods, participants in both groups said they are in agreement that this past week is an inflection point.
"We need to make a show so people will open their eyes to things that have been easier to ignore for a long time,” Marnie said. “I’m willing to give up my privilege."
Madrigal said the time is now for change.
"I’m tired of crying, it’s time,” Madrigal said. “It’s time for action and true change. Not that it’ll blow over in a few days. Something has got to happen."
