Trayvon Martin, George Floyd and Michael Ramos were just some of the names written in chalk outside of the Bee Cave Public Library on June 13.
The individuals commemorated under a message reading “Black Lives Matter” all lost their lives as the result of law enforcement action, said Aaliya Maknojiya, a Lake Travis High School student who helped organize the event.
The demonstration was held at Hill Country Galleria and was organized by Lake Travis Against Brutality, a newly formed group entirely run by local teenagers. The event was held in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement, but rather than holding signs, participants created chalk drawings.
“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 told Community Impact Newspaper prior to the event.
Organizers provided all attendees with chalk, water and hand sanitizer. A booth located outside of the library showcased QR codes for individuals to sign petitions or make donations to organizations such as Campaign Zero and the NAACP.
Moknojiya, an incoming sophomore, said the group came together to split the costs associated with holding the event.
The Bee Cave Police Department was made aware of the event in advance, and officers were present to ensure public safety. Attendees also wore masks and created their drawings 6 feet apart in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
