Two Rallies Planned for Holiday Weekend in Shelton
People across the country are demonstrating their passion for causes in hopes of inspiring change. This weekend, downtown Shelton will see a rally for both Black Lives Matter and Back the Blue.
On Sunday, September 6, at 2:00p, a Black LIves Matter Shelton Rally is planned. On the event description, the organizer says, “I’m organizing this event for Shelton, WA. It is a small town that needs some of our attention. I do want us to march if there is enough of us there. I want some numbers and security there because it is [an] iffy town. Please wear all black and masks. There will be free snacks, water and extra masks. Bring signs, noise makers and megaphones, I want us to be really loud and heard. Be prepared.” According to their website, Black Lives Matter is a “global organization in the US, UK, and Canada, whose mission is to eradicate white supremacy and build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on Black communities by the state and vigilantes. “
At the same time on the same day, a Back the Blue Rally is planned less than a block away at the intersection of First Street and Railroad Avenue. On the event page, the organizer of the local event says, “There are four corners [at the intersection] here, let’s fill them up with our support for police officers… sign waiving, flag waiving, all in support of our officers in blue.” Back the Blue is an activism campaign by ACT for America focused on building community support for local police officers, saying, “With radical leftist protesters constantly vilifying our local heroes, it is our job to stand up and defend their honor.” Their website has many downloads including thank you cards to send to law enforcement and petition sheets.
City of Shelton Police Chief Darrin Moody has been in consistent contact with the Chamber. “Business owners may want to consider closing their businesses on Sunday afternoon if they want to avoid the crowds brought by the two groups.” He also notes that while he has no reason to believe that property damage will occur, it “probably isn’t a bad idea” to pack away any valuables and make sure all doors and windows are locked. SPD plans to have extra officers and patrols in the area to keep an eye on the situation and is coordinating with local law enforcement partners including WSP, Mason & Thurston Sheriff’s Departments, planning for any contingencies. He cautioned that everyone has constitutional rights and the right to exercise those in a peaceful manner.
For more information, please contact the Chamber office at info@masonchamber.com or (360) 426-2021. Chief Darrin Moody can be reached directly at darrin.moody@sheltonwa.gov or (360) 426-4441.