Local activist groups and grassroots organizations are joining together for a Blackout and Black Lives Matter protest on the afternoon of July 4 at Lake Eola Park, with a block party set to to follow the event. A much better use of the park than for fireworks, we’d have to say.
The coalition of groups involved includes the Let Your Voice Be Heard Inc., Dream Defenders, and Orlando Freedom Fighters, all involved in previous anti-racism and Black Lives Matter protests that happened throughout Orlando in June.
An Instagram post announcing the rally courtesy of the tireless Orlando Dream Defenders bore the very appropriate slogan “Come be a part of history in the making instead of celebrating a facade.”
“Blackout” references a movement for Black communities and allies to exercise their economic power as a means of protest. On a Blackout Day, participants are urged to not spend any money at stores or online, and if they do, for the recipient of their money to be a Black-owned business. The next official Blackout Day is Tuesday, July. 7.
The Blackout Movement Day July 4 rally takes place this Saturday at Lake Eola Park starting at 3 p.m. Visit the Facebook event page for more information closer to the event day.
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This article appears in Summer Guide 2020: Salvage the Season.