CLEVELAND — Activists in Cleveland estimate that they’ve had around five social justice marches in 2021.
What You Need To Know
- A rally was held in East Cleveland on Monday for Vincent Belmonte
- Belmonte was shot and killed by East Cleveland police in January
- Around 100 people participated in rally and march throughout the city
On Monday, another rally was hosted in East Cleveland with about 100 people in attendance.
Organizers said this rally was to demand justice for Vincent Belmonte, who was shot and killed by East Cleveland police in early January.
One of the activists in attendance was Robert Rice, a man who wants to make a positive change in his community.
“I believe it is our responsibility,” Rice said. “It’s our duty to fight for our freedom.”
The 26-year-old Cleveland resident is involved in various social justice groups throughout the city.
“Wherever there is people, there is power,” he explained. “Being here there is plenty of it [power].”
On Monday, he marched alongside at least 100 others to demand justice and police accountability.
“It feels good to be with the people, because the people are what keep us going,” Rice said. “Change doesn’t happen without a demand.”
Rice has been involved in activism for the majority of his life and said he has participated in a countless number of rallies.
“You have to make a demand,” said Rice. “You have to come together as a people, as a mass to make change. “
He hopes marches like the one in East Cleveland on Monday will inspire positive change throughout the city.
“It’s a beautiful thing when you see not just black people,” Rice said. “But people of all backgrounds coming together on a similar wavelength.”
