TULSA – Hundreds packed into the Metropolitan Baptist Church for a Vigil for Justice on Wednesday night.
Church leaders say they hope to support those wrestling with "systemic injustice witnessed across our nation and right here in Tulsa."
All walks of life packed into the church and all showed up to express one thing: a community they feel is broken.
Tuesday night’s diverse group embraced one another to get one point across: unity for Tulsa. Speakers said the name Terence Crutcher symbolizes oppression that should no longer exist.
"But it's critical to ensuring that our young people can breathe can thrive and can grow up to be leaders and change makers in Tulsa and in our world"
The message Wednesday night was clear, unlike some officer-involved shootings in the past Tulsa’s response to injustice is about becoming one voice that’s strong enough to hear, but gentle enough to heal.
"I’m extremely frustrated tonight, when I hear the all-around cause for peace from those who have taken the camera but no one mentions policing reform in black, brown and impoverished communities.”
Church leaders say the time for Tulsa is now to lead by example, and put an end to conflict
"We need our police but we need them to reform our tactics and weed out their biases at that level there must be confession and repentance"
SPECIAL SECTION: Videos and background of the fatal shooting of Terence Crutcher
As people walked in, they were able to write something for the prayer wall. Several notes filled the walls inside the church, with all hoping to help mend a broken community.
“I just believe God is with us and that for them to encourage and be strong and I told them that the Lord will never leave you or forsake you,” said Karon Cain.
No matter the length, it's a message these Tulsan’s hope will help to mend the Crutchers’ broken heart.
People starting to fill up Metropolitan Baptist Church in north Tulsa @KJRH2HD pic.twitter.com/ANtl0plzVG
— Katie Wisely (@KatieWiselyTV) September 21, 2016
“To the Crutcher family, and all black Tulsans, all of us are with you,” said Scott Swearingen. "I hope more than just comfort, also a sense of strength."
After they wrote their messages, they picked up a clothespin and found an empty spot on the prayer wall.
Some hope Wednesday’s Vigil for Justice will bring change. Change, they say, where everyone will be treated the same.
"I believe God that one day we will see that change we've been waiting and unfortunately we’re not seeing that and in some people's eyes, it's gotten worse,” said Cain.
Cries of the Community. Every person can write a thought or prayer. @KJRH2HD pic.twitter.com/7hWEHZPgqM
— Katie Wisely (@KatieWiselyTV) September 21, 2016
As the prayer wall fills, notes side by side, the community hopes each one will be received.
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