Black Lives Matter Boston stands with Philando Castile's family and all families who have lost loved ones to State sponsored murders. We will hold an OPEN communal space as a response to the unjust murder of Philando Castile and all Black people in the United States. We gather to lament and decry their murders. We gather to affirm our sacred lives and commit to continue the fight against Black genocide and the struggle for human rights. ALL who stand in solidarity with the Movement for Black Lives and Black Lives Matter will be welcomed.

Pluralism Project Summary:

The community meeting for Philando Castile was organized by Black Lives Matter Cambridge, and took place at the Union United Methodist Church on Wednesday, June 20, 2017. The event was attended by about 60 people from different parts of the city and though people sat scattered in the pews, there was a strong sense of community. Speakers approached the microphone  one by one to share their reasons for coming to the event as well as their fears and hopes in light of the Philando Castile verdict and the Black Lives Matter movement. Several of these speakers were emotional as they spoke and emphasized feelings of despair and sadness. While the sentiments that were shared were heavy, there was also an emphasis on community and relationships, and some commentary on “the way forward,” especially for white people who desired to challenge racism within the United States.

This summary was written by a Pluralism Project staff member who attended the event.