KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Nearly 1,000 people showed up to a silent Black Lives Matter march Sunday that spanned from City Market Park to East 19th and Delaware streets to 19th and Grand streets back to the park.
Local organizer, Justice Horn told 41 Action News how this protest is different.
"[It's] kind of a moment for us to really mourn and really be with those we’ve lost,” Horn said.
The protesters held signs while wearing white shirts that featured names of those killed nationwide by police.
For some protesters like Angel LaPointe, this march was their first.
"I feel like now more than ever it is the time to use your voice, use your actions, and stand up for whatever it is you believe it," LaPointe said. "More than ever we need to be united."
Protester Sean LaPointe said, "You feel compelled to do something to make a difference."
Others, like Jerrime Fobbs, believe these protests show the need for systematic change in our society.
"I’m a black person and I’ve experienced both marginalization and I believe in peaceful protests so I’m just here to lend my support," Fobbs said.
Protesters hope their message will be the step toward spurring more change.
"You can grow as a person and as a community," Fobbs said. "We can do better and we can be better."
There are several more protests scheduled throughout the coming week in both Wyandotte and Johnson counties.
On Monday, a BLM protest will be held at Wyandotte City Hall from 11 a.m. - 1p.m.
On Tuesday, there's a 'Call to Action' to support Councilman Brandon Ellington at noon at KCMO city hall.
A BLM protest also will take place at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday in Prairie Village.
Thursday, they plan to meet with Missouri Gov. Mike Parson in Jefferson City.
