As protests continue in cities nationwide, the collective call for racial equality has also spilled into the suburbs, leading teens with the desire to have their voices heard.
Incoming Lake Travis High School sophomore Aaliya Maknojiya wanted to illustrate her support for the Black Lives Matter movement in a way that would be safe for the community.
Teenagers throughout the Greater Austin area have watched protests unfold on the news and from their social media channels, but there are a number of hurdles preventing them from having their voices heard, Maknojiya said.
Many students are still unable to legally drive, and fears surrounding the spread of the coronavirus or the presence of violence have kept young adults out of the action. According to Maknojiya, it was important to organize an event so these young people could advocate for justice.
“I just wanted to organize something that was for our Lake Travis and surrounding communities that would use creativity and make an impact at the same time,” Maknojiya said.
She and fellow peers have joined together to launch Lake Travis Against Brutality. The group will host a protest at Bee Cave’s Hill Country Galleria. The demonstration will be held June 13 from 2-7 p.m. at the outdoor shopping center’s central plaza, located on the green space in front of the Bee Cave Public library.
Lake Travis Against Brutality has also launched an Instagram account, which has become a resource for antiracist education, support opportunities and details on local demonstrations. The organizers have utilized social media to grow the movement and attract participants for the upcoming event.
With support from the Bee Cave Police Department and Chief Gary Miller, the peaceful protest is expecting upward of 100 individuals. Though not legally mandated, the use of face coverings will be encouraged for all attendees. Protestors will also be asked to socially distance themselves. For more information follow Lake Travis Against Brutality.
