On August 24, The STRAP Foundation, in partnership with the Magic City Youth League, presented The First Annual 1000 Youth March. Many came from across the City to take part in this historical movement of our youth. High School Sororities and Fraternities came from their perspective schools. Over 200 vehicles trailed the powerful presence of the Birmingham Police Department and Chief A.C. Roper with Mayor William Bell and Councilor Marcus L. Lundy. Sgt. Hall gave safety instructions to follow along the route. At 2:30 p.m., the vehicles were being lined up for departure. At 2:45 p.m., Darron Hurst of Saved By Grace Ministries assembled everyone for a moment of “prayer”. At 3:05 p.m., The Birmingham Police Department ignited theirs “lights” and blasted their “sirens”, it was time to depart to East Thomas Park for The First Annual 1000 Youth March.
Darron Hurst was appointed to designate other ministers to assist him during this prayer walk. Rev. George Robinson, Min. Robert L. Operton, Pastor G. Stanley, Harry “traveling shoes” Turner were among the ministers to spiritually lead this march.
Following the ministers were “organizers”, Abdul Alwahiid, Joe Lockett and Gayle Lockett. The STRAP Foundation board of Directors was also leading this movement in their vehicles being escorted by STRAP CADETS. They are Judge Patricia Stephens, Judge Dorothea Batiste, Judge C.H. Brantley, Sharon McGary, Darnell McGary, Jovita Operton and Carolyn Johnson.
People lined many parts of the streets only to hear the ministers praying. We heard the music playing from East Thomas Park as we were arriving. “Magic City Sound and Entertainment” donated over five hundred dollars in services for this event.
The youth enjoyed the hotdogs and drank cold water as they engaged in various recreational activities. Special Guests included: “Angels of Praise” and “Praise Team” of Doers of the Word Outreach Ministries; Joshua Children; Devonta Ravizee, D2 dance line, Lionel Baldwin and others.
Donald Shepherd, the founder of the S.T.R.A.P Foundation would like to thank all those who sincerely supported this event. Join us next year for the second annual 1000 Youth March.
