Presbyterian Outlook editor Jill Duffield was among those in Charlottesville, Virginia, who turned out Saturday (Aug. 12) in opposition to a sometimes-violent white nationalist rally that many condemned as demonstrating racism and bigotry.
Duffield documented some of what happened — starting with a “Love Over Fear” sunrise prayer service at First Baptist Church that included a blessing of the peacemakers and those trained in non-violent resistance, and remarks by Cornel West, a Harvard professor and social activist. Duffield has been working with the Charlottesville Clergy Collective as it organized a faith-based response to the white nationalists’ “Unite the Right” rally. After the service, counter-protesters marched through the streets — providing a public witness to the importance of love, compassion, peacefulness and diversity.
The governor of Virginia, Terry McAuliffe, declared a state of emergency. White nationalists marched Aug. 11 at the University of Virginia, in a demonstration that university Teresa A. Sullivan condemned, calling it “disturbing and unacceptable.” The situation on the ground in Charlottesville was often ugly, and at times turned violent.
Faith leaders were among those calling for love, not hate.
Photos by Jill Duffield.
Counter-protesters march in Charlottesville.
Anti-fascists gather in CharlottesvillePastors at a prayer vigil for peace held Aug. 10, 2017 at Westminster Presbyterian in Charlottesville, in advance of white nationalist rally. (Duffield did not take this photo).
Presbyterian Outlook editor Jill Duffield (in blue, with stole) at a sunrise prayer service Aug. 12 in Charlottesville led by Cornel West. (Duffield did not take this photo).Clergy were among the counter-protesters.A young witness.
Legal observers wore neon green hats.
A. D. Carson, the new hip-hop professor at University of Virginia, reciting from Ralph Ellison’s “Invisible Man.”“We are so full of love that we become radiant with love.” – Brian McLaren speaking Aug. 12 in Charlottesville“For the first time I saw a completely open and inclusive environment in a religious institution.” A young man, wearing chains, speaking of a prayer service opposing the white supremacy rally.The white nationalists.Religious leaders gather to go out as a witness to peace and love.First United Methodist in Charlottesville, offering water, safe space, worship and pastoral care to anyone who needed it.Counter-protesters come to First United Methodist in Charlottesville for respite.
Medical care being provided for people affected by the tear gas.
