Video: Organizer Of July 30th ‘Stand Up Mississippi’ March Speaks Out

TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – For years, Ellis Westbrook was a businessman in Northeast Mississippi. When
he heard about the officer involved shooting June 18, that claimed the life of Ronnie Shumpert, and the tensions that have followed, Westbrook organized a march for July 30th.

“The message we are sending to the nation and the state of Mississippi is that we all can get along together under one umbrella as one race, in Christ, we march together and stand together for justice and liberty for
all,” Westbrook said.

The March is being called “Stand Up Missisippi.” Westbrook was invited to organize the march by a group called the “Minority Youth Matters Movement.” That organization is best known for its protests against what it sees as a
lack of minority representation in NASCAR.

Westbrook says he is aware of the incident June 18th , but he is not taking sides. Instead, Westbrook says the march on July 30th, which will start at Veterans Park, has one mission.

“We don’t entice, in any affiliation of white race, black race, green race, whatever race there might be of unjust causes, we are strictly here to say, God answers prayers,” Westbrook said.

The march will continue down East Main Street and wind up in front of Tupelo City Hall. Then guest speakers will address the crowd, and a worship service will take place. Minister Westbrook is quick to put down any
concerns that the march will promote violence, in fact, he says two well known groups contacted him about taking part and he had a clear message for both.

“The conversation we had with the Black Panthers and also with the KKK, is hate groups of that nature, if they affiliate themselves as a hate group, we would ask them to stay at home, if they can’t hold hands with my clergy in
this community for reconciliation with Christ, to pray and unity, I’d ask those organizations to stay where they are,” Minister Westbrook said.

Westbrook is hoping to get10,000 people to the march. For more information on the march, go to www.facebook.com/minorityyouthmattersmovement