Local vigil hosted for Virginia violence victims
Dozens gathered at Frances Stevens Park in Palm Springs for a vigil honoring the victim’s in that Virginia attack yesterday.
Organizers say they’re hoping to fight back against racism, hatred and bigotry.
One of the organizers, Christy Holstege, running for Palm Springs city council, says she was approached by members of the community to host the vigil.
“We saw reaction about this tragedy all over the country and locally people were looking for an opportunity to get involved. We want justice and freedom for all and we’re willing to take action now and we can make sure everyone feels safe in our communities,” said Holstege.
People carrying signs showing zero tolerance for any form of hatred.
“Enough is enough. We need to speak out more about things that are bothering us. It’s part of our freedom of speech and yesterday’s events were heart breaking. This young woman was using her voice in a peaceful protest and she ended up loosing her life because of hate,” Eileen Stern said.
President Donald Trump continues to get backlash for blaming “many sides” for the chaos.
“When a man drives a car into a crowd of people and kills someone, you do not have to equate sides. You know who the perpetrator is and I expect the president of the United States to express that outrage,” Lisa Middleton said.
Early on at the vigil one counter-protestor raised his voice and jumped in the fountain. Police standing by quickly went after him. No arrests were made.
