They took the stage
to talk about the future
here in this town
where black-skinned people live.

Some told stories
about violence, bias and hate.
Yet from within their hearts of sorrow
a transformational moment occurred.

Survivors embraced, sang and prayed,
“May there be no more shootings,
no more terror, no more death.”
Melodies flowed across the meadow

In songs of beauty and new life, we pray,
“May each caged and separated child
experience once again
freedom and her parents’ love.”

Today we pray,
“Divine of the universe and earth,
may there be no more strangers.
Make us whole, make us healthy,
make us one again.”