Dear Editor,

This week, our community has experienced a tragedy. A man, Herbert Gilbert, died in an officer-involved shooting. While the case is still under investigation by the GBI, the fact remains that a man lost his life, and that is always a tragedy. I extend my sincere condolences to the family.

Wednesday, protesters took to the streets of Thomasville. I went to be with them. I watched in awe, from a distance, at the peaceful way they conducted themselves. I was amazed again when I witnessed Thomasville City Police officers escorting the group through the downtown streets, ensuring that their voices were heard and that they were protected.

The most powerful and moving display of community was expressed at the Magnolia Street prayer vigil that was held at Mr. Gilbert’s residence at 6 p.m. Hundreds gathered, black and white members of our community, embracing each other, expressing a desire for unity. In this, I have hope.

In attendance were City Council member Terry Scott, City Manager Steve Sykes, Police Chief Troy Rich and other city representatives, all offering sympathy and support. Officers moved throughout the crowd distributing fans and bottled water to onlookers. Then it was time to pray.

For more than an hour, pastors and community leaders prayed for Gilbert’s family, the children who live in the Magnolia Street neighborhood, and for law enforcement, including the officer who was involved in the incident. It was a humbling sight to behold.

Thomas County NAACP chapter President Lucinda Brown called for peaceful demonstrations and unity among our citizens; speaking against the use of violence, emphatically declaring, “That’s not us!” This was a proclamation that was echoed throughout the night. As I stood amongst the crowd, allowing the weight of the words wash over me, I was flooded with hope. What I saw was Thomasville United! I had a vision of how Thomasville, this small Southwest Georgia town, could show our nation how to respond in times of tragedy. The answer: unity and love. 

This, of course, is no easy plan. It will require community leaders, city representatives, pastors, and neighbors working together to achieve this end. An end that is seemingly in the works as I write this. At the close of the gathering, an impromptu meeting was called for where this plan will go into the works. I am hopeful. 

The aftermath surrounding Mr. Gilbert’s death could have ended very differently; possibly, some expected it to, perhaps some even wanted it to. Yet, as I reflect on the events of Wednesday, I have hope that in the end, love, peace, and unity will win the day. I for one will stand #ThomasvilleUnited.

Jason Bennett

Lead Minister

Cornerstone Church of Christ