Report by Paula Antolini, June 4, 2020, 9:36AM EDT
yesterday, June 3, 2020, to seek justice for George Floyd.
The “Candlelight Vigil for Justice” to be held in Bethel, CT tonight was cancelled yesterday according to a notice posted on Facebook yesterday by First Selectman Matthew Knickerbocker, who was originally promoting the June 4th event with CT State Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan.
There now seems to be some confusion about whether or not the event will take place, judging from comments in online chats.
Below is an additional message by CT State Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan, issued on June 3, 2020, that might help clarify:
“I am truly disappointed by the decision to cancel the June 4 vigil in Bethel.
“Vigils such as the one we planned provide a vital opportunity to come together as a community to condemn systemic racism, to grieve, and to begin to heal. Similar peaceful events have taken place without incident in towns across the state, most of which have had the support of local elected officials and law enforcement leaders. Silence is its own loud statement, and right now Bethel’s is speaking volumes.
“I have the utmost confidence that the residents of Bethel would have maintained a respectful and peaceful atmosphere, had they been given the opportunity to gather. While much of the response to the planned vigil was overwhelmingly positive, we did receive some hateful feedback from folks who do not share our desire to bring our neighbors together. It’s discouraging, but we can’t be discouraged. We are a resilient community, and we will find other ways to come together.
“As part of that effort, I’m working with a group of young people who refuse to be deterred and are planning a similar event in Danbury. The Walk For The Change You Want To See event will take place this Saturday June 6th at 12pm at Roger’s Park in Danbury. I look forward to seeing you there.”
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