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Social Progress Advocates for Real Change (SPARC), a Peekskill-based organization of community members will be holding the vigil from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Depew Park football field. The peaceful event will feature speakers, musical performances and culminate with a silent march around the park. The event is designed to show solidarity for Martin’s family.
Colin Smith, a member of SPARC, said the event is not a protest and is designed to embrace togetherness and raise awareness.
“Our goal is not to create a stir, but to give people a chance to come out and have their concerns be heard,” Smith said. “We want local community leaders to express where we go from here and have everyone come together. We want to make things better for our children.”
Clergy leaders and members of the White Plains chapter of the NAACP will speak, and area artists will perform music to give the night a spiritual overtone.
“There’s a number of members in the community who feel there is a sense of urgency that needs to be addressed and have it be recognized,” Smith said. “We want everyone to come together. People are upset and want to see changes. They are looking for someone to take a positive lead.”
The Martin shooting showed how prevalent racial stereotypes still are, Smith said. Smith believes the jury profiled Martin like Zimmerman did.
“This is what happens when somebody profiles another individual based on appearance,” Smith said. “Problems can ensue. George Zimmerman was well-intentioned, but it would’ve been better for him to stay in his car and allow the authorities to handle the matter.”
By holding the vigil, SPARC is hoping young African-American men understand there are people who care about them and want them to succeed.
“A lot of young men are very frustrated with this verdict,” Smith said. “The verdict seems to say that if this happens to you there is no redress. Something like this should not happen. The verdict sends a message that black men may be at a disadvantage.”
SPARC intends to be advocates for the community as a whole, helping out those in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods and working to provide health care, education and legal assistance to those in need.
“We want to get involved and advocate for people,” Smith said. “We want to open up a dialogue and have a conversation.”
SPARC plans to hold community forums to allow people to discuss the aftermath of the verdict. Smith praised the Peekskill Police Department for fostering a better relationship with the city’s youth.
Despite the outrage over the verdict, Smith said he sees some positives that can come out of it.
"It re-opens this whole debate about the stereotypes people have and the issue of profiling,” Smith said. “The discontent and frustration the minority community has with the legal system has been brought to the surface. We hope people realize they do have a voice and this gives community advocates more of an impetus to pursue change.”
For more information, contact SPARC2013@yahoo.com.
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