As Daniel Vega made his way through the streets of Cornelia, the flag on his shoulder and the name on his t-shirt said it all: George Floyd.
Vega ran a memorial 10K Wednesday evening to “show my support for our Black Community and all of our fallen Brothers and Sisters.”
He didn’t run alone.
Along the route from Cornelia City Hall to Walmart and back, others joined him. Three boys rode their bikes as young women jogged and several cars followed behind.
After eight days of noisy protests and heated clashes across America, this group’s statement on racial injustice and police brutality spoke nearly as loud in its simplicity. People who saw the smiling youth instantly wanted to know what they were doing.
“I love you all. I love my Community and I stand with every single one of you,” Vega wrote on social media. “All Lives Do Not Matter Until Black Lives Matter!”
Civilians weren’t the only ones who joined in the run. Cornelia Police and Fire officials supported the peaceful demonstration, as well.
“Lt. Green has given us his support and encouraged us to do what we feel is right!” Vega wrote when announcing the 10K. “Thank you Cornelia PD for your support! This means so much!”
