On Sunday, July 17, just prior to the start of the Republican National Convention, thousands of interfaith activists in Cleveland took part in a special event called “Circle the City With Love.” At a time when violence and division are dominating the national narrative, the group wanted to advocate for peace, justice and love. They rallied together with speeches and music and then marched to the Hope Memorial Bridge. There, they lined up on both sides of the bridge and held hands in silence for nearly 30 minutes in a demonstration of unity and hope. Here are some photos taken by managing editor Kim Lawton and producer Lauren Talley. (Shawn Martin and Justin Stine were also part of the R&E crew.)
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Circle the City with Love participants hold hands on the Hope Memorial Bridge in Cleveland on Sunday, July 17, 2016.
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Lauren Talley, R&E Producer and Shawn Martin, R&E crew member, at the Circle the City with Love rally.
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R&E videographer Justin Stine films participants as they hold hands and stand in silence on the Hope Memorial Bridge in Cleveland on Sunday, July 17, 2016.
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Kim Lawton interviews Sr. Patricia Chappell, executive director of Pax Christi.
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Kim Lawton, interviews and Justin Stine films Rev. George Hrbek.
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Circle the City with Love rally in Cleveland on Sunday, July 17, 2016.
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Justin Stine films the Circle the City with Love rally.
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Circle the City with Love rally in Cleveland on Sunday, July 17, 2016.
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Justin Stine and Shawn Martin at the Circle the City with Love rally in Cleveland on Sunday, July 17, 2016.
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R&E Staff at the Circle the City with Love rally in Cleveland on Sunday, July 17, 2016.