Demonstrators Carry 750 Crosses Down Chicago’s Magnificent Mile for 2016’s Homicide Victims
A section of Chicago’s Michigan Ave. commonly referred to as the Magnificent Mile was used to demonstrate just how traumatic 2016 was for many of the city’s residents.
On Saturday, the last day of 2016, demonstrators matched down the street in Chicago’s downtown carrying 750 crosses, each representing a homicide victim of the year. Each cross listed a name, age and number to signify the order of their passing.
“We’re protesting violence. Who are we calling to get involved? Everyone,” said Rev. Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina to The Chicago Tribune.
“Every elected official, every government agency, every business and corporation, every mosque, every synagogue and church, every law enforcement official, every parent, neighbor and resident, and every citizen — from children to elders. Everyone. We are calling on all of Chicago to take a stand against violence,” he continued.
Many of the crosses were carried by family members of the fallen. At the end of the march, they were all placed in order along Pioneer Court as a saxophonist played “Amazing Grace.”
Hopefully, this demonstration won’t need to be repeated at the end of this year and a city often criticized for its violence can get closer to finding peace.
Photo Credit: Twitter