(EDITOR’S NOTE: Anson Middle School student Aaliyah Parson wrote the following letter to the HOLLA! organization after participating in the Jan. 13 NAACP march against violence in Wadesboro.)

It all started with a phone call from my aunt. She told me there would be a march for no more violence, in remembrance of the murders of two of our very own this past week.

I have to say I was quite shocked that everyone was willing to come together, and put an end to the violence. Many people have been murdered in our community, and we had yet to do anything about it. Marching was an honor, privilege, and an opportunity to let our voices be heard.

Seeing everyone unite was such a powerful thing, and I definitely think it helped save many lives. Young people today need to know that someone does care, and that killing isn’t the way. Getting them in school focused on something other than what’s going on in the streets would make a big impact in their lives. I realized the march was not only about stopping the violence but it was about letting our voice be heard, letting everyone know that we as a community are one. No one will ever have to stand alone. We will get through it together. God was with us every step of the way, and will continue to be.

Being in the march has taught me there is something I can do. Any and everyone young or old has a voice. Martin Luther King Jr. once said and I quote, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” So don’t let this be the last time we stand up. Continue to strive for what is right!

I must say I enjoyed marching with my family. We shared memories that will never be forgotten. My family and I are very caring, and we do every thing we can to make a difference, and get involved.

This movement inspired me because if it was one of my family members I wouldn’t want it to go unnoticed. I was touched by all the people who came out to support the cause. Overall it was a success, but change doesn’t come in a day; it takes time. Today I learned that anything is possible.

Aaliyah Parson

Wadesboro