On the heels of a similar, relatively impromptu event held last Sunday, a second Pottstown-focused rally will be held this weekend on Sunday, June 7, beginning at Smith Family Plaza outside Borough Hall, 100 E. High Street.
While both events were sparked by the tragic recent death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police, the larger purpose is to raise awareness about racism and related injustice and promote ongoing “Peace and Equality,” planners said.
Organized by Pottstown resident Troy Rivera with support of the Pottstown Police Department, the Pottstown branch of the NAACP, and other local organizations, the event will feature several speakers and a march to demonstrate solidarity among people from throughout our community. Gathering will begin at 4 p.m., with the event officially beginning at 5 p.m.
“This is about uniting Pottstown in a peaceful way and showing we can come together to stand against
racism and violence,” Rivera said.
Several businesses already have volunteered to donate refreshments for participants who wish to enjoy additional fellowship following the march, around 6:30 p.m. Additional food donations will be welcomed; interested vendors should contact Rivera at 484-719-3101. Steps will be taken to ensure that food is provided within current Center for Disease Control guidelines.
All participants are asked to wear masks and to be respectful of social distancing expectations. A limited number of masks will be available for distribution, but residents should make every effort to bring their own. Guests also are asked to wear black or white shirts if they can, or attire that represents businesses, nonprofits, or other organizations that stand behind values of justice and equality.
Plans include a voter registration table with representatives from both political parties, as well as a table set up by the YWCA where participants can sign a pledge supporting unity among people of all races.
The Pottstown Police Department and other area police representatives will participate – with officers
walking side-by-side with citizens to share their outrage and concern about racially motivated injustice, violence, and other issues. U.S. Representative Madeleine Dean (D-PA 4th District) is expected to attend as well as other area dignitaries.
Older citizens are welcomed to bring chairs so they can sit during the event – and organizers hope to see young residents also come out to learn about the issues and ideals embodied by this peaceful event.
Rivera, a 2016 Pottstown High School graduate, is studying criminal justice at Montgomery Area Community College. He also is a day care teacher at the Tri-County Area YWCA and he runs a home improvement business.
Organized by Pottstown resident Troy Rivera with support of the Pottstown Police Department, the Pottstown branch of the NAACP, and other local organizations, the event will feature several speakers and a march to demonstrate solidarity among people from throughout our community. Gathering will begin at 4 p.m., with the event officially beginning at 5 p.m.
“This is about uniting Pottstown in a peaceful way and showing we can come together to stand against
Several businesses already have volunteered to donate refreshments for participants who wish to enjoy additional fellowship following the march, around 6:30 p.m. Additional food donations will be welcomed; interested vendors should contact Rivera at 484-719-3101. Steps will be taken to ensure that food is provided within current Center for Disease Control guidelines.
All participants are asked to wear masks and to be respectful of social distancing expectations. A limited number of masks will be available for distribution, but residents should make every effort to bring their own. Guests also are asked to wear black or white shirts if they can, or attire that represents businesses, nonprofits, or other organizations that stand behind values of justice and equality.
Plans include a voter registration table with representatives from both political parties, as well as a table set up by the YWCA where participants can sign a pledge supporting unity among people of all races.
The Pottstown Police Department and other area police representatives will participate – with officers
Older citizens are welcomed to bring chairs so they can sit during the event – and organizers hope to see young residents also come out to learn about the issues and ideals embodied by this peaceful event.
Rivera, a 2016 Pottstown High School graduate, is studying criminal justice at Montgomery Area Community College. He also is a day care teacher at the Tri-County Area YWCA and he runs a home improvement business.
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