March in Milltown denounces racism, shows solidarity for Black Lives Matter

The march concluded with groups gathering to share their stories of racism and brainstorm solutions.

News 12 Staff

Jul 11, 2020, 9:21 PM

Updated 1,624 days ago

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More than 60 people marched in Milltown on Saturday to show their solidarity for Black Lives Matter, push for equality, and to denounce racism.
It's the second rally and march in the Middlesex County town in less than a month, sparked by racist comments directed at 12-year-old Christopher Velez after he climbed a tree at Albert Avenue Park in on Memorial Day.
Christopher says he was not able to see person who made the comments but says it was a male voice.
Following the incident, Christopher ran home to tell his mother, Katty Velez.
"I was certainly angry. I think I've been fed up because there were other incidents that happened…I think that was just last straw for me,” she told News 12.
Katty Velez says that some people in the community called the incident a “rumor” and a “lie.” Others helped her organize rallies and raise awareness about the racism she says she witnesses in the community.
The march concluded with groups gathering to share their stories of racism and brainstorm solutions.
Christopher says the incident will make him “stronger and more aware” of his surroundings.
Rally organizers say they put together a committee comprised of 60 people to bring people together and teach them about Black history.