Monthly vigils for social justice are returning to the twin cities.
After a several year break, organizer Linda Unterman is bringing back gatherings the second Tuesday of the month, outside the Bloomington Center for Performing Arts. Unterman helped organize similar events in the aftermath of the Iraq war, in conjunction with moveon.org
She said a new local group, "Stand Up for Social Justice," will seek exposure for a variety of causes.
"Saying no to deportation, defend racial justice, defend civil rights, reduce inequality, no hate in our state, welcome refugees, support LGBT equality, protect reproductive rights, support our Muslim neighbors, support climate accords, and support equal opportunity in general, " said Unterman.
She added the recent increase in hate crimes helped drive the latest planned vigils.
"It's important to show each other that we can stand together, and to speak out when we hear racial or discriminary (sic) comments," Unterman added.
The first vigil is Tuesday from 5:30 to 6 PM.