A new group of protestors took to the Syracuse city streets Monday evening. But the organizer said their mission is to walk in peace to empower.

“Our protest is a protest with purpose,” said Bishop Dr. H. Bernard Alex of the Victory Temple Fellowship Church. “We are not here to destroy, but we are here to build.”

Bishop Alex led his group of protests from Victory Temple Fellowship Church to the Syracuse Police Department’s headquarters.

But for him, this march reignites his pain from the past.

“I was 6, 7 years old when Dr. King was killed,” said Alex. “I was at 905 Townsend Street. I remember my father, mother having to hide us on the floor as protestors were trying to get downtown. I will never forget the smell of tear gas and my father shaking. I never thought that would be going on now.”

Bishop Alex said change is long overdue, and protestors can’t afford to stop now.

He believes the nationwide protests and riots will cause people to unite.

“Let’s put together a plan, a definitive action plan and make some changes,” said Bishop Alex. “Make some systemic changes, educational, law enforcement, housing, employment in every area.”

He said locally, law enforcement has improved, but more needs to be done.  

“There needs to be a consistent voice in the culture,” said Bishop Alex. “The narrative has to be rewritten and it needs to become inclusive.”

They walked peacefully, but with power.

“Let the establishment know that what has been, is no more,” said Bishop Alex. “We’re not accepting. Give people information, inspiration and encourage them to vote, to make change.”