Religious leaders hold peaceful demonstration
CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) - Hundreds came out Monday night to march on the Chicago police headquarters. And for more than an hour, religious leaders spoke to the crowd.
Tuesday marks one week of protests in Chicago following the release of the Laquan McDonald shooting video.
But Monday was the first march and demonstration led by religious leaders from all over Chicago.
The sidewalk in front of Chicago Police headquarters was filled Monday night - all quiet except for the leader on the loudspeaker.
The group came together as one church, calling on themselves to step forward and lead people in this confusing time in Chicago.
Pastor Charlie Dates of Progressive Baptist Church said, "I think it's the church's responsibility to call for justice. There are many people calling for justice tonight all over America. However, ours is undergirded with a call for righteousness,"
This group has demands. They are calling for a federal investigation, an overhaul of the police culture and for leaders to take accountability over the death of Laquan McDonald.
The group was multi-ethnic, interfaith and people of all ages - religious leaders taking turns on the bullhorn, most talking about justice some about race.
"God, if I may be so bold as a white male to confess on behalf of my white brothers and sisters for the history we have brought to this moment," one speaker said.
The goal of Monday night was to be united, not divided, and to show love and respect.
Some protestors pushed towards the front of the police headquarters, hoping to padlock the doors, but were stopped by police.
“Sometimes it's hard to know what to do, but we can all pray we can be present,” Andie Moody told FOX 32 News.
Overall, Monday night's demonstration was very peaceful, quiet and some people told FOX 32 News it was exactly what they needed.
Clergy members say this will not be the first and last demonstration they hold, but nothing is officially planned yet.