Community holds silent protest as a call for unity

CHILLICOTHE — A silent protest took place Sunday along the Ross County Courthouse steps in Chillicothe as citizens gathered to call for action regarding the racial tensions in Ross County and promote unity.

The protest was organized by citizen Lesha Malone and other community leaders. The group cited recent events like KKK fly ers being distributed and audio released by the Scioto Valley Guardian allegedly from the sheriff using racial slurs, which he has denied as reasons why change is needed.

In a news release before the event, it was stated that Malone and the group emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive approach to foster unity and address the mental health issues that complex racial trauma fuels and vicarious trauma of providers and law enforcement.

Separately before the protest, the Rev. Dr. J Troy Gray from Zion Church held a community prayer on the courthouse steps where church members worshiped and prayed for positivity in the world and in the community. This included walking around the law complex and singing praises to God.

The event included a silent protest, speakers, singers, and a prayer for the community. Malone told the over 50 community members present that events like these help create change and that without those willing to stand up for what they believe the world would still be segregated.

She told those who had gathered that this event was a way to help Chillicothe and Ross County become a better and safer community for those living in it. Many who attended said they would like to be part of a steering committee for change.

"This is something we don't want to ignore," said Malone. "This is a problem we all have to work together on."

This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Community holds silent protest as a call for unity