When 29-year-old Shawn Marqus Dromgoole was afraid to leave his front porch after the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd, he expressed his fears to his mom, mentor and Next Door App users in his 12 South neighborhood. What happened next has given birth to a national movement for this African American man.
Over 75 residents, along with Shawn’s mentors and mom, met at the Cookery Coffee Shop on 12th Avenue South four weeks ago to help Shawn overcome his fears and to show solidarity. Now, each week Shawn is leading walks to bring awareness to gentrification, police brutality and how to build long lasting relationships with neighbors.
When you know better, you’ll do better.
“I want to walk for everyone who’s afraid and alone. Everyone is a neighbor (all you have to do is step off your porch) if you express yourself the world can change.” Shawn Dromgoole
The #wewalkwithshawn next event in Nashville will be Saturday June 27 from 6-8 pm. Walkers will meet in front of the Inman and Ayers Buildings (1803 15th Avenue South) on the Belmont University campus.
The route includes an Edgehill Black History Tour and Walk for justice. The rich African American history of Edgehill will be highlighted to include the homes of former Black city leaders, clergy and the Homesite and Memorial Park of William Edmondson, a renowned sculptor.
The #wewalkwithshawn event is being hosted by Edgels Angels of Edgehill, Second Missionary Baptist Church, and Belmont University.
For more information or questions, contact Terri Chapman at <edgehillnative@gmail.com> or 615-448-7724.
