The Kent Black Action Commission (KBAC) plans a No Ferguson in Kent rally and march on Tuesday evening, Sept. 16 from the Maleng Regional Justice Center to City Hall.
The ongoing events in Ferguson, Missouri surrounding the shooting death of Michael Brown have caused the KBAC to take pause and reflect on the likelihood of a similar incident taking place in Kent, according to a KBAC press release.
“Although we all agree that community relations in Kent are a long way from being a Ferguson, we feel that we should take this opportunity to start the process of having the type of conversations that will insure that nothing like that will happen in our city.
“With that said we must also convey our deep concern for the troubling statement made by Kent City Councilman Les Thomas when he referred to Michael Brown as an “18-year-old thief” in response for a request for a moment of silence at an (Aug. 19) council meeting. This is the type of insensitive thinking that runs counter to our desire make Kent a model city of diversity and inclusion.”
In response to its stated concerns the KBAC will hold a rally and march starting at 6 p.m. Tuesday. The rally will start in front of the Maleng Regional Justice Center at 401 Fourth Ave. N.
The march will leave the RJC at 6:20 p.m., proceed south on Fourth Avenue to West Gowe Street and cross over to the front of Kent City Hall. At City Hall, the KBAC will set up a voter’s registration booth, demonstrate for solidarity and attend the City Council meeting at 7 p.m.
At the council meeting, KBAC members intend to get on the agenda and address its concerns as it relates to Ferguson and the comments of Thomas.
All concerned citizens are invited to join the rally.
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