Staff report
A religious-based group will hold a Justice Rally in Salisbury to deal with alleged police abuse, violence and other issues.
Brother John C. Barnette, founder of THUG ó True Healing under God ó announced plans for the rally for 7 p.m. Thursday at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 300 S. Caldwell St.
Barnette has invited city officials, representatives of the NAACP, representatives of the Black Political Caucus and concerned citizens.
“We want to encourage youth to ‘pull up their pants, put down their guns and pick up a book,’ ” he said Friday.
Barnette said the rally will deal with several issues including:
– Alleged police abuse at a local night club. The SBI is investigating an incident where a Salisbury officer appears to have hit and/or choked people involved in a fight at the LaBamba club on Kumac Road;
– Observe a moment of silence for the shooting death of Elbert Leon “Trey” Chambers III;
– Present ways to reduce the violence in Salisbury;
– Mobilize local leaders to bring about unity in order to increase more youth involvement;
– Receive complaints from local residents related to civil rights.
The group will hold a press conference Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Trinity Presbyterian Church to provide additional information.