BLOOMINGTON – Union Park in Bloomington was the center of two different rally’s on Sunday, both with different messages.
One ‘Backing the Blue’, calling for support of local law enforcement. The other chanting support for the Black Lives Matter movement and calling for accountability of those in uniform.
The organizers of the ‘Back the Blue’ rally said they created the event to spread support and encouragement for local law enforcement.
“We have great officers that serve us and so I hope the people that are here at the rally leave feeling that, feeling energized and spreading that word.” said Co organizer Wendy Carlton
T-shirts sold at the event will benefit the Boys and Girls Club along with other non-profits.
“So we can actually be instrumental in helping our own communities and putting the needs in our community first and helping those that might be less fortunate.” said other co organizer Karin Miller
Outside of that event were those gathered to support the Black Lives Matter movement.
Organizer Sonny Garcia said this was organized in direct response to the other rally.
“I’m super proud and happy that these people showed up and had the courage to come out today and stand up for black lives. Especially in this time with everything that’s going on in the country. Cities are burning and this is a direct slap in the face to the people that have been murdered on the street by the police.” said Garcia
Garcia said he wants there to be an end to what he described as a cone of silence among police when something “unlawful” happens.
“This is to raise awareness that there are people that believe there are good cops and they need to be supported and not retaliated against by the police union and other officers.”
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