The Final Call

Justice Or Else Movement trending #1 out the gate

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Justice Or Else attendees begin to arrive on The National Mall. Photo: Monica Morgan

“We are here continuing the legacy of the Million Man March. We gather today knowing much is at stake,” said Tamika Mallory, an event co-convener. “Let us remember the words of Ida B. Wells: The ones who commit the murders write the reports. We are here today to say we choose differently.”

To the conservative media who projected that the gathering was to incite violence, she said, “We are not the violent ones. We are being murdered. We are here to provoke peace.

Brother performs the call to prayer at the opening of this historic event. Photo: Monica Morgan

Drummer performs during opening ceremonies. Photo: Monica Morgan

Dancers perform during opening ceremonies. Photo: Monica Morgan

Young Ray Alston remembers his uncle. Photo: Monica Morgan

Attendees call out for justice. Photo: Monica Morgan

“To my friends who called me who are scared, step aside. We didn’t come to Washington to play games. Go back and tell your brothers and sisters that the time for playing games is over.”

The program began with prayers from diverse communities, including a call to prayer by Ghanain Ahmed Tijani, respect for Indian traditions by Hector Perez Panchero, a Christian prayer by Rev. Anthony Wendell, head of the Detroit chapter of the NAACP, followed by the Muslim prayer by Abdul Khadir Muhammad, and the pouring of a libation.

Rev. Anika Wilson Brown from Union Temple Baptist Church told the crowd that they were standing in their power and today is a new day.

“We say today, up you mighty people and rise. An army is rising up. We are here to break the chains of bondage and oppression. Today it is midnight in America, the darkest moment before the light. I hear the chains falling. Break the chains!”

She was followed by Y’Anna Crawley backed by a choir singing, “There is Power in the Name of Jesus”.

The first hour of the program was moderated by Rev. Willie Wilson, pastor of Union Temple Baptist Church and a co-convener 20 years ago and today. He told the crowd why they were gathered.

“We’re going to break the chains of envy, jealousy and disunity,” he said. “But if you are here for a gala, you’re here for the wrong reason. If you are here for a ceremony, frolic, just to celebrate, you’re here for the wrong reason. We are here to demand Justice and to demand it now.”

He added. “We have done everything conceived to fight for justice and equality on this country. We have voted, fasted and prayed and then been continually rebuffed. Our cries, moans, and demonstrations for justice have been disregarded. We’ve been met with contempt. We can no longer just beg and pray. We must stand up and demand justice. I’m tired.”

He was followed by At Large City Council Man Vincent Orange who spoke on the need for D.C. Statehood.

“D.C. Statehood or Else. D.C. has a larger population than Vermont and Wyoming,” he said. “Sign the D.C. Statehood petition.”

Mayor Muriel Bowser welcomed everyone to the nation’s capital.

“Washington welcomed this march to make sure that every voice could be heard. I would not miss today’s event. Our administration has been focused on growing pathways to the middle class, productive avenues for our youth and returning citizens. We will lead in this nation to show that if you’re willing to work hard you deserve a second chance. We will work hard to see that everyone deserves a second chance,” she said.

By 11:30 am, Justice or Else was trending at number one nationwide.

For more information on the Justice ... Or Else! Movement, visit: www.justiceorelse.com.