NEW HAVEN – In the wake of the shootings across the nation, the New Haven community is coming together in solidarity.
At the “Stand Together Rally,” city officials, community organizations and New Haven residents joined forces for justice, equality and unity.
The lot alongside the Varick Memorial AME Zion Church was full on Sunday, with people standing together in an effort to push for change.
“I thought we needed a place that we could come together, and be encouraged by each other as well as to vent, and we needed to be able to come together and stand united with our community,” Pastor Eldren Morris said. “I want people to walk away from this with the message that we are united in New Haven.”
Throughout the rally many of the speakers said they believe New Haven is setting a great example for the rest of the nation.
“This is the example that needs to be set forth not just in the state but in the country, as well,” New Haven Police Lt. Sam Brown said.
Brown said it is important for communities to build supportive relationships between residents and police.
“Once you achieve that level of trust, and once you can work with the community it fosters a relationship that just breeds success,” Brown said.
Community members said they were leaving with positive feelings that the city is a united force.
“I think it's a wonderful thing to let people know that all lives matter whether you’re blue, black, white, it doesn’t matter, everyone, we’re all connected,” New Haven resident Norman Forrester said.
And at Sailfest in New London Sunday, a young boy wanted to send a message to his community, so he asked a police officer if he would take a picture with him.
