Steps toward unity highlight second annual New Kent Unity Walk
Citizens, law enforcement officers, and elected officials make strides both physically and figuratively during the second annual “New Kent Unity Walk” on Aug. 26.Andre' Jones photo
The definition of the word unity is the state of being united or joined as a whole. That is what citizens from New Kent, Charles City, and surrounding communities did during the second annual New Kent Unity Walk on Aug. 26.
The purpose for this special event was to not only celebrate the coming together of people despite their race or background, but to show a conservative effort to unite against the central issues that have plagued the country that are now coming to the forefront.
“We must put the past behind us and strive for love and forgiveness,” said event organizer Charles Moss. “We have to bring issues to the forefront, address them, and find solutions. That starts with peace and love.”
The event started with a prayer, followed by a walk with citizens, law enforcement officers, and dignitaries from the New Kent Historical School to the steps of the county’s courthouse. From there, attendees took in and accompanied Julia Hathway in the singing of the national anthem. Many speakers lent their voices that was not only inspirational, but showed what the community must do to improve.
“We must spread the message of coming together,” said Moss in his opening statement. “Let’s love and live in a place of justice and peace for all.”
New Kent’s District 3 supervisor Patricia Paige stood firm about New Kent’s strength as a community.
“We will not tolerate [the actions] of Charlottesville in New Kent,” she said, commenting on the recent events that made national headlines. “We will not disrespect our community, we will not disrespect our citizens, and we will not disrespect our law enforcement.”
Pastor John Smith of New Generation message to the crowd contained a powerful statement to addressing issues and finding solutions.
“We are the voices of the people,” he said. “All lives matter and we can’t move forward if we shove things under the rug like they don’t exist.
“We need to strive for unity,” Smith added. “Let us all be unified.”
Afterwards, Moss said he hopes surrounding localities take part or organize similar activities to bring awareness and restore a strong community foundation.
“I want us to continue to grow and to have more counties and communities to come out,” he said. “I want more churches and community organizations to get involved.
“I am just a figurehead, but this is something that we need to understand to help bring us together for the betterment of all,” Moss concluded.