Seattle King County NAACP to Hold Peace Circle at Friday's Football Game Between Garfield and Rainier Beach

 PRESS ADVISORY
For Immediate Release: Friday, October 21st, 2016
Contact: Sheley Secrest, economicdevelopment@seattlekingcountynaacp.org, 253-468-1247

Seattle King County NAACP to Hold Peace Circle at Friday's Football Game Between Garfield and Rainier Beach
Highlight the Importance of Unity Between the Central District and the South End

Seattle, WA--On Friday evening, the Rainier Beach High School and Garfield High School football teams will face off in a Metro League playoff game. The Seattle King County NAACP will hold a peace circle with the teams and cheerleading sqauds immediately before Friday's game to build unity between the South End and the Central District. Each person will stand next to someone from the opposing team and lock arms in a circle. This represents an opportunity for the players to come together and stand united; symbolizing the importance of keeping the rivalry between the South End and the Central District on the field instead of in the streets.

Statement from Garfield High School Football Team
In an effort to reach across the field and to set a universal standard of respect, Garfield High School’s Football Team with the support of their cheerleading squad and Rainier Beach High School’s Football Team including their cheerleading squad have made a commitment to come together, linking arms as a show of unity prior to Friday night’s contest. 

In a physical demonstration of brotherhood and sisterhood, regardless of race, economic ability or neighborhood these two rivals on and off the field have made the noble commitment to leave all aggression on the field. Tonight when we come together, we are ONE. One nation, indivisible, decisive and committed to moving forward. United and equal with rational thought, uncomfortable conversations and deliberate peaceful, respectful action.

We ask that the supporters of this movement, link arms with us in solidarity. Garfield Football will be announcing a comprehensive plan of action next week. We encourage each of you to go to www.principaltedhoward.com for more information.

What: Peace circle with Garfield and Rainier Beach High School Football Teams

When: Friday, October 21st. Game starts at 7:45pm, peace circle to take place immediately before the game.
Where: Memorial Stadium (401 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109)

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Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities. More information about the Seattle King County NAACP can be found here: www.seattlekingcountynaacp.org
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