Black Lives Matter Unity Walk Held In Falls Church

FALLS CHURCH, VA — Hundreds turned out for a unity walk Thursday in Falls Church in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody.

The walk was organized by George Mason High school students Ariana Hameed and Sarah Ettinger, according to the school's student newspaper. The event started around 1:30 p.m. at West End Park, where organizers and local officials gave remarks. Falls Church Police were involved to coordinate road closures amid the walk.

Participants walked on Park Avenue, turned on Little Falls Street, and headed back to the starting point via Lincoln Avenue. Attendees were encouraged to wear masks and practice social distancing.

Organizers shared the reasoning behind the walk on the event page:

To honor George Floyd and call attention to the injustices in the world. To show support and solidarity for people of color, to be allies, and take a stand for justice for George Floyd and the many others who have lost their lives based on the color of their skin. We can do better.

Another event is planned in Falls Church to honor Floyd and other black Americans who have died. The Justice for Black Lives Rally will take place at 1 p.m. Sunday, June 7 at Cherry Hill Park. Participants will include the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation, Fairfax NAACP President Sean Perryman, Falls Church City Mayor David Tarter and Alexandria Council Member John T. Chapman.