In response to the recent tragedies of the last few months, millennials have been a core piece in the organization of protests, marches, and demonstrations in Saint Louis, MO.

The murder of Mike Brown has incited protests worldwide – from Missouri to Hong Kong. For some these protests may seem as impulsive reactions to unfortunate events, but as an African-American, I can tell you that this is bigger than a single incident.

This is bigger than police brutality. It’s bigger than profiling and stereotypes. This is ultimately about Black Liberation in America.

But the aforementioned is why it is essential that African-Americans on college campuses make impacts on their respective schools. These issues affect ALL of us.

We have hosted multiple events about Ferguson at Missouri State University with less than stellar attendance from our white counterparts. If we are going to be the generation that makes the change, we have to engage in dialogue, collectively. The Homecoming Blackout is about uniting for justice, raising awareness and encouraging dialogue on the University’s largest public platform.

But first, you must believe the change CAN HAPPEN. You have to believe that it doesn’t have to take another 100 years before things get better. WE can be that change. Together.

Part One: Homecoming Parade (9am)

The Association of Black Collegians have signed up to walk in the parade. Tentatively, we will meet up prior to the parade to disperse signs and banners. We ask that everyone wears all black (a black t-shirt and jeans is fine) for uniformity. After the parade we will meet at the Bearpaw before the Tailgate at 11am.

We are no longer marching in the parade. If you are joining us for the protest, we will be meeting in the Monroe prior to the tailgate starting at 9am. We will then march to the Bear Paw around 11:30am.

Part Two: Homecoming Tailgate & Game

We will make the initial march from the Bear Paw to the Tailgating area around 11:45am.

(Note: This is a silent demonstration)

On November 1st, there will be a third installment of the Speak Up event series regarding Ferguson, Vonderrit Myers, police brutality, race relations, etc.

Our PRIMARY goal during the tailgate is to promote for this event. We will be passing out handbill flyers with the event information encouraging attendance.

Get Involved: If you would like to get involved or help in anyway you can email me at: (jb25@live.missouristate.edu)

(Please meet us at the Monroe by 11am or outside of the Bearpaw by 11:30am. This demonstration is open to and encourages participation from all races, genders, nationalities, etc.)

Here’s to freedom..