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Black Lies Matter protest will not disrupt marathon runners

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KARE 11 A closed-door discussion between St. Paul Mayor Chris 
Coleman and leaders of the St. Paul Black Lives Matter (BLM) 
chapter Thursday led to a promise that runners will not be 
disrupted or interfered with during Sunday's Twin Cities 
Marathon.

Coleman and St. Paul BLM leader Rashad Turner emerged from the 
Mayor's office after about two and a half hours of intense 
dialogue on the treatment of residents of color in the city by 
St. Paul's Police force, and other issues of equality. Coleman 
addressed reporters first, emphasizing the fact that St. Paul is 
committed to erasing the gap between white residents and 
residents of color in education, employment, and social justice.

"Clearly, the community has expressed concern we're not where we 
need to be," Coleman said.

That being said, the Mayor announced that Turner and the St. 
Paul Black Lives Matter chapter have agreed to refrain from 
interfering with runners trying to complete the course, as had 
previously been threatened. Instead, BLM, will demonstrate near 
the finish line, raising their voices about the issues that have 
boiled on the front burner since the death of Ferguson, Missouri 
resident Michael Brown at the hands of a white police officer.

"The Mayor took the time to listen, he heard our concerns," 
Turner shared. "We will not disrupt the course."

Turner said BLM St. Paul still intends to protest at the 
marathon, but in a designated space without blocking any runners.

Coleman urged competitors and spectators to come out and enjoy 
what has become one of the Twin Cities most popular and 
prestigious events. He also asked anyone who attends to take a 
moment, and genuinely listen to the voices that are protesting 
inequities in our community. "It's not about a marathon, or a 
rally... it's about the work we need to do," Coleman said.

The mayor promised continuing dialogue with BLM on issues 
impacting St. Paul's communities of color. Coleman credited 
African american elder Nathaniel Kaliq with his involvement in 
Thursday's meeting.

http://www.valleynewslive.com/news/local/headlines/Black-Lives-
Matter-protest-will-not-disrupt-marathon-runners-330348581.html

   

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Black Lies Matter protest will not disrupt marathon runners "Daily Negro" <daily.negro@gazette.com> - 2015-10-06 03:05 +0200

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