On Friday, June 12, 2020, around 1,000 people participated in a Silent March for Black Lives Matter in Normandy Park.
Friday was chosen because it was a statewide day of silent marches to honor and mourn the victims of police brutality and institutional racism.
Organized by resident Haley Ballast, the event started at 4 p.m. at the Normandy Park Community Club (“The Cove”), then protestors walked silently up to City Hall.
The peaceful, mostly white crowd of local protestors wore face coverings and practiced social distancing, carried signs, and wore black clothing.
Families with kids carrying handmade signs were frequently seen, and the overall feeling was one of respect and community.
As the march progressed from The Cove, the usual sounds of a crowd diminished, turning into one of mostly of shoes walking on wet pavement, occasional young children, and the caws of local crows.
Spotted in the crowd was Normandy Park Mayor Sue-Ann Hohimer, Councilmember Shawn McEvoy, King County Councilmember Dave Upthegrove and others (EDITOR’S NOTE: It’s not very easy to recognize people wearing face coverings so we’re sorry if we missed you!).
Below is an edited video showing highlights from the protest, as shot and edited by Scott Schaefer:
Where were our city leaders at the end of yesterday’s silent walk?
I wish I’d watched the video before I posted. Thank you city leaders for showing up. I was way at the back and didn’t hear you being introduced. I thought everything was over.
Do not commit crimes!
I want to see us have a BLUE LIVES MATTER parade in Normandy Park. We HIGHLY VALUE our policemen and need to honor them for the courage and sacrifices they make for us! Let the mayor, councilmen, children and all citizens .march in a show of respect and appreciation for THEM. They can be thanked for us being able to live in a SAFE and peaceful community!