One Couple Ignites Peaceful Change In Red Oak

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Red Oak protests
Photo provided by Desiree Benson

Standing For Change In Red Oak

Red Oak- On Tuesday, Desiree Benson got home from work and told her husband to get dressed, we’re going out. But instead of heading to get a bite to eat, they stood on a busy corner in Red Oak. Their mission, show Red Oak its possible to protest peacefully.

Desiree posted on her Facebook page, “We have to show our kids you are allowed to stand for what you believe in and you can do so without being violent or disrespectful. You can stand for something even if your the only one in the whole town standing for it.”

And from there the Red Oak group has grown from two to many others including children, standing together, peacefully for change. Desiree says, “My dad was a hippie and our town is STILLLLL segregated by a fence in the cemetery. I learned the peaceful side from him and my mom. It feels amazing to be able to organize something that actually had a turn out that was nothing but positive!”

Red Oak protests

Be The Change

Today, Benson and her husband stood alongside others with signs on the corner of I-35 in Red Oak. Some wore masks, some held signs, but everyone was respectful and peaceful. Tomorrow the group will meet in front of Little Caesars Pizza on Ovilla Rd. at 5 PM, to stand up for change without violence. Anyone is welcome to join the group, but come in peace.

Desiree says, “We won’t stop until we’re heard. This is more than JUST George Floyd. This is for racial injustice throughout the whole system from arrest, to trial, to sentencing. We demand our voice be heard. We are tired.”

There are other protests across the best southwest area this week. Mansfield has a protest scheduled for 2 PM on Friday at Mansfield High School. In Midlothian peaceful protesters have been sitting on the corner of 287 & 663 in the early evening. But if you decide to protest, remember social distancing is still recommended!

If you’re organizing or attending a peaceful protest and want to submit photos or tell your story, email us editor@focusdailynews.com. Also, just $10 gets you an annual subscription to our e-edition and allows us to keep sharing local news with you.

 

 

 

 

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Kristin Barclay
Kristin Barclay graduated from the University of South Carolina with a major in Journalism and Advertising. Throughout her career, Kristin has demonstrated a passion for storytelling and a commitment to providing accurate, timely, and informative news coverage. She has a deep understanding of the issues and concerns facing local communities and has earned a reputation as a trusted source for reliable news and information. In addition to her work as an editor and journalist, Kristin is also a skilled writer and has written articles on a wide range of topics, including politics, business, education, and culture. She has a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling stories that engage and inform readers. Kristin is also an active member of the community and has volunteered her time and resources to numerous organizations and causes. She believes in the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on the world around us. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Kristin Barclay is also a passionate advocate for local journalism and the role it plays in keeping communities informed and engaged. She believes strongly in the importance of supporting local news outlets and is dedicated to ensuring that quality journalism remains a vital part of our society. Outside of work, Kristin enjoys traveling both for business and pleasure. She loves exploring new places, meeting new people, and experiencing different cultures. Whether she's on a business trip or a vacation, Kristin is always eager to discover what makes each place unique and special. Kristin's passions include boots, bourbon, dogs and college football. She is a self-proclaimed boot aficionado and has an impressive collection of cowboy boots that she wears with pride. She also enjoys sipping on a good bourbon and spending time with her husband and beloved border collies. Last but certainly not least, Kristin is the proud mother of two children who bring joy and meaning to her life. She is deeply committed to being a loving and supportive parent, and her children are her greatest source of inspiration and motivation