Three groups met at the same time in two locations Saturday to protest against Donald Trump, violence and strategies for non-violence responses.
South Monroe was alive with the sound of footsteps and purpose Saturday as about 150 residents marched from Carroll High School to the Powell Community Center, carrying two powerful messages: stop the violence, and resist authoritarianism.
Another group had no signs but were dressed mostly in suits and bow ties, as they huddled to find a strategy going forward; they were Black Muslims.
The “Stop the Violence” march was originally organized by local activist and social media influencer Marie Brown.
Brown said she was moved to action by the recent death of a 14-year-old in the community — a tragedy that has shaken many South Monroe residents.
“This march was about unity and safety,” Brown said. “We needed to make it clear that we will not stand by while violence tears apart our neighborhoods,” she said.
Marchers held signs urging an end to local violence, while others added their voices to a national protest against Donald Trump’s policies. The additional participants joined under the banner of the “No Kings” movement, linking concerns about neighborhood safety to what they described as the threat of growing authoritarianism.
“It is still our desire that all experience true freedom — just to be safe in your own neighborhood,” said marcher Zana Hamilton as she walked with the crowd.
The march, which coincided with Trump’s birthday and national commemorations of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary in Washington, D.C., became a shared platform for multiple messages.
“Everyone is here for pretty much the same reason, to stop ruthless violence — whether in our streets or from oppressive policies,” said one participant.
As marchers called for change in the streets, another group of Black leaders gathered at the Johnson Recreation Center for a three-hour strategy session aimed at creating real solutions for ending violence in South Monroe.
Led by Minister Verbon Muhammad of Muhammad’s Mosque #99 of the Nation of Islam, the meeting focused on equipping influential community members with plans of action.
The session provided printed strategy sheets, guidance from speakers, and a blueprint for moving from protest to solutions. While children played outside the center, enjoying bubble fountains and sweet treats, serious discussions took place inside.
“We must have strategies to combat violence,” Muhammad said. “And that begins with meetings and plans — often where there are no cameras,” Muhammad said.
Nationally, the Nation of Islam continues to play a leading role in addressing violence in communities across the country, with Mosque #99 at the forefront of efforts here at home.
Together, Saturday’s marches and meetings underscored a shared determination: South Monroe will not stay silent in the face of violence or injustice.
Three Messages, One Purpose
