First of many steps

University of Minnesota Duluth-

The movement that swept the nation and world during a global pandemic. Black lives matter took its own place in the city of Duluth at the University of Minnesota of Duluth. At the event hosted at the football stadium speakers, marching and social distancing were a huge part of this event. The peaceful protest brought many people from the community out and about. Which doesn’t seem to happen much these days.The marchers went from the football stadium and around the whole campus. Signs reading BLM and we stand with you and Dump your racist boyfriend were held during the march. This peaceful protest hosted by the B.M.S.E student group. Groups chanting “Black Lives Matter and No justice No peace” filled the air and cars honked with support as the protesters walked down Woodland Ave.

Talking to people around one of the most remembered quote said by the speaker was“ I would be scared to have a son right now”. It stuck with me personal as well. Not knowing what that would feel like to fear your son could be killed for nothing by someone who is supposed to protect communities. The speakers include football coach Marcus McLin who is a huge part of the B.M.S.E student group. The group says they are working towards creating a bond of brotherhood with like minded individuals. To cultivate young black leaders. I talked to many people at the rally many said that the sense of unity was very prominent to them. The University Chancellor being there and sports teams, coaches and clubs. No matter who you are, you were all supporting the same thing.

People took a knee for eight minutes and forty six seconds to represent the time that it took to take George Flyod life.The feelings of strength and unity could be felt in the air at this moment. As all the people raised their arms in support. Looking from the ground you could see all the fists being raised high and the sea of heads. “The sense of unity and community that everyone brought to the event was really cool to experience.” quote by Kaylee Nelson. People from all different backgrounds came out for this event. Walking all for the reason of equality.

Coach Mandy Pearson said “ Things like this make me hopeful for our world. That there are good people out there that would come together as one”. This being the first ever event like this on campus really made it the first step towards change. The speaker said “ be the generation of change it won’t happen overnight but we can start it. We can be the generation of change.” I think this could be a good step towards change in our community. In a time where things are so unsure the feeling of not being alone and standing as one sure brought this group of people together.

Ideas:

Story on Peaceful protest

Story of whats after protest

A individual story about one person affected

How certain groups are working towards change

How Covid 19 has effected the movement

Different things sports team are doing for change

what the school is doing for change

A story on just the B.S.M.E group

On Monuments that are in Duluth now for BLM

The progress of Duluth whats next ?