“The reason why I originally wanted to start a protest, is because sitting around and posting #BlackLivesMatter on social media, or a black screen on #BlackOutTuesday, or simply saying the name of a victim just wasn’t enough for me anymore. And it definitely wasn’t enough for black lives. The Black Lives Matter movement matters to me because I have family members, friends and acquaintances who are Black, and have each been a victim, in some way, of Racism. As a White woman, I never had to worry about things like that. And it would completely shock me to my core when I’d hear or see someone do something racist. I’ve never been one to just let things happen--I will always speak up, no matter who it is or what it’s about. For me, I can’t sit around and watch people suffer or cry out for help. I have to help, I have to make a difference, I have to reach out my hand to them.

Meridian is truly a “Queen” of a city, and here I’ve met some of the most royal people. They love this city, and want it to be better. They want to see this city come together. So, when George Floyd happened, the streets of America were packed with people who are sick and tired. People who know, posting some picture on social media is NOT enough anymore. Meridian wanted to be a part of the Movement. People wanted to come together. Then I met one of the most powerful Black women I’ve ever met, N’spire Walker. She was organizing a protest as well, so we decided to team up and do it together! There is POWER in numbers. We will continue to fight by our Black communities’ side, while also connecting with others and focusing on other issues as well. I can’t wait to see what more this movement brings us in this fight that we will no doubt fight together until Justice is served and real Change begins!” Emery Howell, organizer
Photos by Rodney and Nikki Ashford

#ICantBreathe #BreatheThroughMe #JusticeandPeace #PeaceRally #Meridian #Mississippi #TheMovement #BlackLivesMatter #MemoriesMatter