A Powerful Example of “Silent, Yet Effective” Protest on Social Injustice!
Submitted by Samantha Williams
Senior Contributing Writer
The continued practice of criminalizing Black bodies by law enforcement and non-Black vigilantes has sparked numerous global protests. Black people are beyond tired, upset, and frustrated, and our allies have joined forces to demand the justice, equity, and freedoms we have yet to receive.
In June 2020, recent events inspired two Boston-based married couples to organize a silent, yet powerful and peaceful protest at Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market, which is also located near City Hall. Co-Leaders of the Boston Men’s Dinner Group, Emerson Foster and Paul Francisco, were joined by crowds of Black men who stood in silence and solidarity as they symbolically demanded change from City Hall and city officials.
Photo courtesy Of Daniel Irvin
Photo Courtesy Of Daniel Irvin
Foster is a respected Black business executive leader and current Vice President of Human Resources – North America and Global Strategic Accounts for the Corporate Services Division of Sodexo.
Emerson Foster
He stated, “We wanted to spotlight the need for police reform and pledged to lend our voice in calling for change. Luckily, there were many in the Boston community and political circles pushing some of these reform measures forward. We stand behind those community members and organizations to ensure legislative actions are taken.”
Demonstrations such as the silent protest organized by Foster and Francisco highlight the need for substantial institutionalized changes and reform.
Paul Francisco
Group co-leader, Francisco, is the Chief Diversity Officer and Head of Workforce Development programs at State Street Corporation. He recounted, “It was a cathartic moment for many of us, a moment where we were able to reflect on the power of our voices. Though we were silent, the imagery of seeing over 150 men of color standing silently while holding signs with the names of the many black and brown men and women killed was loud. It has inspired many of us to continue to do more.”
Photo Courtesy Of Daniel Irvin
Photo Courtesy Of Daniel Irvin
Alongside their husbands, Anna Foster and Betty Francisco lead the Boston’s Woman’s Dinner Group, and they also organized the recent Women’s Silent Protest. “I am a Black woman, and I am raising Black children.” Stated Anna Foster, Founder and CEO of A Maven’s World.
