Newton Legion Urges 'Wear Blue Day' Movement Friday

Photos: Newton Police Department/Facebook/Final Salute to Detective Wenjian Liu

On Friday, Jan. 9, towns and cities in Massachusetts and 15 other states will acknowledge a “Wear Blue Day,” where citizens everywhere are encouraged to wear blue articles of clothing to support the men and women of law enforcement.

It all started in Newton, when Legion members felt some action was necessary.

Nick Pasquarosa, an officer of the Sons of American Legion in Newton and event organizer, said he and his Legion associates looked at the many protesters against law enforcement that were getting attention “in deference to the many law enforcement people who take the oath , and serve and protect without prejudice.”

“Police officers have sworn ‘to serve and protect’,” said Pasquarosa. “We believe that the ‘silent majority’ supports our police, but they have not been given a voice. ‘Wear Blue Day’ is an opportunity to display support and thanks.”

Pasquarorsa, who hopes that the event will become annual, and that it will spread beyond the towns and cities already signed up, said citizens don’t need to register: they simply need to wear blue to “help spread the word.”

Since the event was announced two weeks ago, support has “spread like wildfire” he said, and social media shares have surged, as well as media coverage.

He added that it’s a “simple and modest way to show support.” The event is also being used as the kickoff to an ongoing initiative to better appreciate law enforcement by presenting a plaque to Newton Police Chief Mintz.

“It will be symbolic of police support everywhere.”

The Sons of the American Legion is comprised of proud sons and grandsons of Veterans. their mission is to support our Veterans in all aspects of their lives.