On Saturday the Black Lives Matter Family March took place at the Sean T. Connaughton Plaza in Woodbridge. It was a peaceful gathering of a diverse crowd who came together to not only congregate, but march in a manner similar to civil rights fighters of the 1960’s, demanding justice in the wake of senseless murders across the nation. What made this family gathering a special one was that all of the speakers weren’t elected officials but instead the voices of the youth, including the children of Mother’s Out Front Tiziana Bottino and Dumfries Vice Mayor Monae Nickerson respectively.

Logan Russell, a rising senior at Patriot High School, spoke on the importance of having journalism represented by minorities. She encouraged the crowd to not allow mainstream media bias and for them to remember that they have a voice as well. “Know that you matter,” said Russell, “your lives matter, and do not let anyone defy you of that!”

Langston Carter, Managing Editor of the PW Perspective, addressed the need for educational advocacy, so students can know about black leaders such as Madame C.J. Walker and Robert Smalls instead of the typical individuals they learn each year within their curriculum. “They worked hard to create systems that don’t work for us. They’ve erased our accomplishments from books and it’s time we throw those books away and bring new ones and embrace our real history.” Carter has led the charge on changing the controversial name of Stonewall Jackson High School.

After the speakers were finished, the marching began from the plaza to the police station located at Davis Ford Road. As they walked in unison, shouting chants of “Black Lives Matter,” those who passed by in their vehicles honked their horns in support. The police ensured that everyone had safe passage during their march. It concluded when they arrived at the police station, setting up a question and answer session with the policemen in attendance. Among the questions asked were how the police would maintain accountability. Captain Barnhardt, who along with Lieutenant Ruben Castilla addressed the multitude of attendees during the question and answer session, went on to mention how they also have a program called “Keeping Blue True,” in which community leaders meet with the policemen to discuss issues. What was also important to note was what Black Lives Matter means to them as officers.

“It means we care, it means the community cares,” said Barnhardt. He went on to talk about how they go on to ensure that they have programs to address the mental health of their officers so they can carry out their tasks of protecting and serving. It is known as the Wellness and Resiliency Unit.

Also, they were asked the important question of the day: do they like donuts? “Yes,” said Barnhardt. “Rarely will there be a box not left empty.”

Parents also brought up personal stories of how they and their children have experienced unpleasant experiences with police officers in the past, and Lt. Castilla brought up how they will continue to hold officers to maintain a standard of expectation.

Katelyn Page, one of the event’s organizers, discussed the importance of putting this event together for the youth of the community.

“This event is all about providing the youth an opportunity to share their voices,” said Page, who earlier this week announced an exploratory campaign to run for the VA 31^st District. “I believe that this generation will be the ones to end systemic racism.”

“The Prince William County Police Department has stepped up and are helping us to extend that communication with one another. This means a lot to our youth because they need representation.”

We spoke with Captain Barnhardt after the session, asking about why it was necessary to come out today and talk with everyone. “Doing events like today establishes trust,” said Capt. Barnhardt, “because we’re listening to what they have to say.”

He goes on to discuss how meeting with the community provides a blueprint as to what their plan of action will be going forward. “We listen to the people, and then apply it to what we do. It helps to rebuild and establish relationships.”