(Coalition members had planned a candlelight vigil this evening to honor and remember George Taylor, who was lynched in Wake County on November 5, 1918. Mr. Taylor’s descendant and great granddaughter reflected on postponing this vigil and shared her feelings and thoughts.)
Dear Coalition Members,
I want to sincerely apologize to everyone who intended to participate in the candlelight vigil on behalf of George Taylor. The decision to postpone was not made lightly. Rather, it was made out of the deepest respect for his legacy and in light of last night's tremendous victories.
As I reflected on these events, I was deeply moved and found myself in tears while reading about Keisha Lance Bottoms' visit to her grandmother's gravesite. It was both troubling and inspiring. I felt the weight of the assignment she understood so clearly, and the mantle she was willing to carry in pursuit of justice for so many whose hopes rested on this election.
I wept not only for that moment, but also for my own family and so many others whose ancestors left us no birth records, no marked gravesites, and no physical places where we can go to honor their lives and sacrifices. Their stories live within us, even when history failed to preserve their names. These moments are deeply sacred and sensitive. Not everyone can identify what they mean, but those who do understand the call to remember, to honor, and to continue the work.
At this moment, a candlelight gathering tomorrow could unintentionally memorialize terror and overshadow the sense of breakthrough and possibility that has emerged. It feels as though the winds have shifted and the sea has parted, creating a pathway forward that we must be prepared to cross together.
Perhaps on another election night, a candlelight vigil would have illuminated our remembrance of what happened on November 5th. But this November 5th, we choose something different. We choose to rejoice, to renew our strength, and to recommit ourselves to telling the truth.
We can incorporate a candlelight tribute during the pilgrimage, where we can honor George Taylor's legacy while also honoring all those whose sacrifices brought us to this moment. There, the candlelight can serve as both remembrance and resolve, illuminating the path ahead rather than mourning what sought to hold us back.
Thank you all for your unwavering support, your dedication, and your willingness to stand together through difficult and defining moments.
This November 5th, we rejoice. We renew our strength. We tell the truth.
Now, let's get busy.
With gratitude and determination,
Sharin
