Fight for the Free State - Paola KS

Name: Fight for the Free State - Paola KS
Start: 2025-08-30T10:00:00-05:00
Location: Miami County, Kansas Veteran's Memorial

Schedule

Sat, 30 Aug, 2025 at 10:00 am

UTC-05:00

Location

Miami County, Kansas Veteran's Memorial | Paola, KS

Protest Plan:
-Meet at 10:00 AM at the Miami County Veterans Memorial. 434-498 N Hospital Dr, Paola, KS 66071
-Walk 5–10 minutes to the corner of Baptiste Drive & Hedge Lane.
-We will backfill along the sidewalk toward Angela Street and protest in place with signs!
-If walking is difficult, you can go directly to the green zone (corner of Baptiste & Hedge) before start time.
End Time: 11:30am
John Brown, a fierce abolitionist, fought in Kansas in 1856 to resist the expansion of slavery, believing that moral conviction demanded direct action. Brown did not fight alone—he was inspired, taught, and emboldened by the courage of Black and brown abolitionists who risked everything for freedom. Figures like Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, and the countless enslaved people who resisted daily, shaped his conviction that liberation was worth any sacrifice.
John Brown could not bear the moral injury of living in a country where people were suffering the atrocity of chattel slavery and genocide- he was willing to die for that cause.
On Saturday August 30th, the anniversary of the battle of Osawatomie, we call on all people—especially white people—to carry forward this legacy by standing up against modern systems of oppression. Silence and inaction serve the oppressor; we must use our voices, presence, and privilege to defend the rights and dignity of all.
Precautions & Tips:
1. Hydration: Bring plenty of water.
2. Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
3. Comfort: Bring a folding chair if you need to sit.
4. Clothing: Wear light, breathable clothing in bright colors.
5. Awareness: Stay on sidewalks and never step into traffic.
6. Buddy System: Attend with a friend and keep an eye on each other.
7. De-escalation: Do not engage with hecklers or aggressive drivers—stay focused and safe. Avoid cursing, or throwing rude gestures.
8. Medical Needs: Bring any personal medications or cooling aids you may need.