York leaders push unity after violent brawl, racially charged flyers
Leaders in York, Pennsylvania, are condemning racially charged flyers and a violent brawl on West Jackson Street, emphasizing unity and proactive measures to prevent a repeat of past racial unrest.
YORK, Pa. —
Leaders in York, Pennsylvania, are speaking out against racially charged flyers and a violent brawl that occurred on West Jackson Street last Saturday night, calling for unity and action to prevent further unrest.
The mayor, the police department, and the NAACP have all condemned the violence and the distribution of the flyers, which appeared in the city after the incident. Dr. Sherry Roland-Washington, president of the NAACP York County Branch, stressed the importance of addressing the situation to avoid repeating the city’s painful history.
Memories of York’s 1969 Race Riots
“We’re not going to allow this situation to be a replica of 1969. We’re not standing for that,” Roland-Washington said.
The year 1969 marked a dark chapter in York’s history, with race riots that resulted in two deaths and over a dozen injuries. The events left a lasting impact on the community.
“We grew up understanding the hurt,” Roland-Washington said. “We don’t want to go through that again. That doesn’t need to be another murder. That doesn’t need to be confusion, racial hate, or rhetoric.”
She added, “That’s why we spoke up. Because we’re not going to stand blindly and allow it to happen. We’re going to do everything we can to be proactive to prevent it.”
Police Commissioner calls for unity
York City police Commissioner Michael Muldrow highlighted the city’s commitment to unity and mutual support.
“We love people here in the city of York. We care about people. Yes, we’re country. We’re homespun. It is who it is. But black, white, Hispanic, old, young, right and left side of the political divide. We’re a community that cares for each other. We’re a community that believes in standing up for each other. We fight together. We live together. We coexist. That’s what we do here in York,” Muldrow said.
You can see our full interview with Muldrow in the video player below.
The flyers threatened to make non-white participants in the fight “pay a heavy price,” sparking fear and outrage in the community.
NAACP demands accountability and protection
In response, the NAACP is calling for accountability for the violence, zero tolerance for racism, protection for all residents, and an end to racial intimidation.
“This situation is hurtful. It’s fearful, and it’s sad. But fear is not going to stop us from uniting and standing together to address the hate,” Roland-Washington said. “We’re not going to allow this situation to be a replica of 1969. We’re not standing for that. And so, I’m grateful that our community organizations have come together, are coming together to address not just the situation, not just the flyers, but the root causes.”
Mayor vows York will not be divided
In a Facebook post, Mayor Sandie Walker assured residents that the city will continue to respond based on verified information while protecting the safety and dignity of every resident.
She added that York will not be divided by anyone seeking to provoke fear or hatred.