It was a calm, yet unified feeling today while standing outside 222 Ferguson Rd.
What’s at that address you ask? A very nice fire station and they’re in the process of fixing up the police station next door. This area is managing to remain free from the vast majority of foot traffic, trash, loud noises (besides those getting into heated discussions and those honking for justice). I plan to go to “ground zero” this weekend for some of the organized marches, clean ups, n such but I’m just as familiar with this part of Ferguson from my high school days as I am West Florissant.
Just as with West Florissant, people chant, hold signs, stand in solidarity, discuss the real issues, eat and drink donated goodies and so on. Grace and I had a good conversation, realized we’re kindred spirits because we’re both educators and graduated from the Ferguson-Florissant school district. She said she wondered about coming down because she didn’t know if she would be accepted. Any and all are accepted to fight the fight. WE as a people ultimately have to do more for ourselves than others but everyone’s assistance can help the next man get ahead!
Black and white, young and old wave, throw up a fist, and honk while passing the Ferguson PD.
People holler out of their windows, “Hands up, don’t shoot.” The unity is real.
Even at night, it’s a calm scene night after night after night.
For two days now I’ve come into Ferguson. But you can probably tell it’s not the Ferguson many are used to seeing on the television. When folks speak of Ferguson, you have to understand there are TWO Fergusons. It’s been this way as long as I can remember.
I’m pretty sure you know this guy. It’s Wesley Lowry of the Washington Post. He interviewed a friend and I.
North of West Florissant, is what is normally seen. It has the tendency to look like a war zone.
Yes, people of all ethnicities live within these county limits, but it’s a bit different as you travel south. Even though this group gathers outside the police station everyday, the feel is less hostile than half a mile away.
And therefore, the protests have been a bit different. For a lot of us, the agenda is similar. We want justice, fairness, to be among those who know we need a change, and a host of other things. And it all takes time. Baby steps. One step is to actually STAND for something. Whether you’re on West Florissant or 222 Ferguson Road, be peaceful, speak your truths to like minded or at least open minded folks, and get comfortable with uncomfortable discussion because it’s a main way we can rise above and make a difference.
The reporter is chatting with a woman working on a paper for her MFA program at a local collect.
Give us truth.
Round table discussion.
The biggest giggle came from watching a woman air punch Flat Jay from her passenger seat as the driver sped by.
Prayer circle and Jay Nixon lurking in the corner.
People donate food and drinks daily. How kind!
The police never honked as they turned in to the station. Womp Womp
This is bringing people together who ordinarily may not have crossed paths. #HISplan
#RIPMIKEBROWN
These are allll over the place on this strip of the town.
Interesting how media stays posted up every day but very few times have the come to talk to the people. There’s some across the street as well (not pictured). It’s up to the people to post the positive.
[Watch this video to see what media typically shows you and to hear and read what residents of the area have to say.]
Oh by the way, the monks are still in town:) Made me smile just to see them.