BECKLEY, WV (WOAY) – In response to the recent killing of George Floyd, local attorney Robert Dunlap, and psychologist Kristy Dumas is organizing a solidarity candlelight vigil.
“They can expect the be galvanized, they can expect to be inspired, they can expect to be motivated, and certainly we want to put the clarity call for structure action,” said Dumas.
The peaceful gathering will take place at Heart of God Ministries at 7 p.m. on Sunday.
“I think that we want to allow our great city to control the narrative about what is going on in the world, and to be able to see ourselves in a structure forward-moving way,” said Dumas.
The death of Floyd has nationally become the topic of discourse over the use of force against black citizens.
“We saw what happens with people feel as if they’re strife, and their voice is not being heard. Buildings burn, as we saw this over and over again. They need the opportunity to vent and an opportunity to know that this is unacceptable behavior,” said Dunlap.
Dunlap and Dumas believe statements from local city officials will help heal those hurting in the community.
“We’re inviting all churches and all constituents in this area. We need it to be made plain that these kinds of activities will not stand in Beckley and won’t be condoned. I’m on the Human Rights Commission, and the Human Rights Commission has already looked at these events and uniformly felt that it couldn’t happen in Beckley. We need a clear from our leadership that is unacceptable behavior from these officers,” said Dunlap.
All social distancing protocols will be practiced during the event.
