Hundreds attend Wilmington’s Gathering for Peace

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Hundreds gathered Saturday at Maides Park in Wilmington for a gathering of peace.

People of different races, ages and sexualities came together to enjoy the day.

Each of them hoped to come away with an important message.

“A sense of community and connection and a way to come together long term in peaceful activism.” Said Event Coordinator Lauren Krouse.

Lauren Krouse, a student at UNCW, came up with the Wilmington Peace Gathering to bring people together and connect her community.

“I saw a lot of people who were upset after the election,” Krouse said. “My house was literally split between Clinton and Trump supporters, and so I needed some outlet to feel connected again.”

Residents from all over the Cape Fear Region participated in activities to promote togetherness and peace.

But what is peace?

“Peace means getting along with each other and respecting one another regardless of our different race, religion or political viewpoints.” Said Jessica Wright, a visitor at the gathering.

Her son Jackson adds that peace is happiness and no violence.

“I think it’s where we care about every human being as an equal and treat each other with our well-being in mind.” Krouse said.

She added that there are no easy answers for how to mend our nation, but finding ways to get together and get involved feels like a good place to start.