Bar association forum was reminder that ‘no one person ... is bigger than a movement’
The members of the John Rowe Chapter would like to thank all those who attended the first in our series of conversations, “Let us Live: Conversations about Race, Reconciliation & Resolutions.” Despite media coverage to the contrary, the event was far from “shut down.” Instead, it was a reminder that no one person, or one megaphone, is bigger than a movement. Our chapter holds no ill will toward Lexington Police Chief Chief Weathers and we respect his leadership. We want to be clear that those who accosted him are not a part of our organization, nor did their actions align with our goals.
The John Rowe Chapter remains committed to our mission of advancing a legacy of service and promise of justice. That does not change because a few people find our methods less efficient than their own, as reconciliation can also be within the various entities fighting for change. Our work did not start yesterday, nor did it end. One of the goals of this series is reconciliation and we will continue in that spirit. Upon notice that several of the same protesters that interrupted our event, yelled vulgarities toward us and our children, and ridiculed our success as “selling out,” were arrested, two local attorneys, both John Rowe members, have stepped up to offer pro bono representation. We welcome future conversations with these individuals as well. While our methods may differ, our ultimate goal, of providing a safe and equitable community, is the same.
Thank you to our community sponsors that donated in support of our mission: Robert Dunson, photographer; Attorney Pamela Ledgewood, Stoll, Keenon & Ogden, PLLC; and Chanel Minnifield, graphic designer. To the moderators and panelist: Professor Blanche Cook, UK Law; Sen. Reginald Thomas; Pastor Victor Sholar, Main Street Baptist Church; Dr. Janet Taylor; Devine Carama; Chief Lawrence Weathers; and Mayor Linda Gorton, we thank you for showing up and sharing in our community conversation. Finally, we want to thank Southland Christian Community Church for the space, as well as the several church and community members that came to support and take part in the conversation. We look forward to the next event at which we can join one another, respectfully, at one table.
This Op-Ed was submitted by the National Bar Association--John Rowe Chapter
This story was originally published June 16, 2020 at 1:13 PM.