Despite the festivities its actually another topic on peoples minds. Thats right. Were here where behind me theres a statue dedicated to those who were killed in confederate wars. While some people have fought to take this statue down, many people are more concerned about the Confederate Flags that fly here twice a year. Reporter its a city of tradition and history. So who better to kick off alexandrias 266th birthday than a town crier . Over 30,000 people picnicked and showed off their dance moves as live bands rocked out for one of the citys biggest events. Its just a good neighborly celebration. Reporter but less than a mile away, cars drive pass the busy intersection of south prince and washington. This statue marked the spot where twice a year the city flies three Confederate Flags. They took it down in south carolina. So why should it be up here . Reporter the very question the mayor asked. Now theyre pushing to take the flag down. This is an opportunity to put that behind us, un
Our matt your is was at both events and hes live right now. The story of 2 communities looking for a bridge to close that divide. Matt. Debra, the mood here was somber and subdued as officers and mourned the loss of the police community. It was in striking contrast felt at the metro stop. Hundreds of people of all colors and all ages expressed their frustration with Law Enforcement with chants at the u street metro stop. I am unbroken. Moments later the march that black lives matter began. The movement closed off u street and called for justice in the 2 police its blatant murder. Its war on our own. The groups march is also raised awareness that is from police toward their community. Im ready for it to stop. Meanwhile as Police Escorted the marchers toward a sinking sun, another group united for blue was about to begin a candlelight vigil to remember the 5 officers killed in the dallas shooting. A priest prayed. A soft rendition of Amazing Grace echoed as each lit each others candle. R