Colorado College students hold candlelight vigil for Ferguson

Colorado College students staged peaceful demonstrations Tuesday, saying they wanted their voices and opinions on the matters in Ferguson to be heard.

After filling the streets during the day, students gathered for a group discussion, sharing personal stories of racism and divisiveness they’ve seen in their lives and in the community.

The group of about 60 attempted to hold a candlelight vigil outside, but the wind proved too strong.

“Our candles were constantly blowing out but we still had hope,” said Melissa Barnes.

“We didn’t give up then. We’re just like alright, let’s move somewhere else,” said Spencer Spotts.

The students gathered inside Shove Chapel on campus for a moment of silence. Most disagreed with the grand jury’s decision not to indict a police officer for the shooting death of Michael Brown.

Spotts said the fallout in Ferguson and around the country shows a bigger problem of racism in America.

“This is not just a city thing. This is not just a state thing. It’s a systematic problem. It’s institutional,” said Spotts. “It’s not just a matter of pointing fingers at a department or a police department, it’s pointing it at ourselves and at the system.”

Barnes said that racism is something she faces in her everyday life.

“The store salesperson comes and follows you thinking that you’re about to steal something because you have a big purse,” she said.

Another student, Jazlyn Andrews, said she wanted to be part of the demonstrations to fight for equality for future generations.

“I’m here fighting this because I know that when my dad held me for the first time, he wanted more for his little girl,” Andrews said.

Students said they hoped others would be willing to keep the conversation going.