Tree of Life Unitarian Universalists plan vigil to protest police brutality

McHenry - As projected tens of thousands from across the United States join in a National March Against Police Brutality this Saturday, members of the Tree of Life Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 5603 Bull Valley Road in McHenry, will bring the message the "Black Lives Matter" to McHenry County in a roadside vigil at the intersection of Bull Valley Road and Crystal Lake Road in McHenry at 12:30 p.m.

They are part of a growing interracial movement responding to a string of deadly police assaults on unarmed Blacks and the apparent immunity of violent officers from legal jeopardy.

The movement flared after the refusal of a St. Louis grand jury to indict the officer involved in the Michael Brown killing and have intensified since a New York grand jury likewise refused to indict the killer of Eric Garner.

There have been marches and vigil in cities large and small across the country, including several in Chicago. Unitarian Universalists, with a long social justice tradition and deep commitment to civil rights, have been deeply involved everywhere as part of their Standing on the Side of Love campaign. Regular vigils held by the First Unitarian Church of St. Louis, near the Ferguson ground zero were specifically an inspiration for Tree of Life members.

The public is invited to join the peaceful vigil and protest at the intersection near the church from 12:30 to 1:30 Saturday. People are encouraged to bring signs that support the broad movement including messages like "Black Lives Matter," "Racism Kills," and "Please excuse the inconvenience. We are trying to change the world."