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08/19/2012 11:00 AM

"Solidarity Center" allows activists to gather during DNC

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CHARLOTTE--A new space for activists to gather during the Democratic National Convention opened this weekend.

The Coalition to March on Wall Street South and other Charlotte activist groups have opened the "Solidarity Center" in uptown.

The vacant space in the Area 15 building is now filled with people. Solidarity Center will serve as a place for several local organizers to meet and network with other activists and hold workshops before and during the Democratic National Convention.


"We are working very hard to make this upcoming DNC a safe, family-friendly environment for everyone who wants to come out and have their voices heard,"said Luis Rodriguez.

With an event of such magnitude, activists said it does raise some concern. But several workshops were held Saturday afternoon to discuss what to expect during the convention.

Activists said having the new space will allow them to be more prepared for what's to come.

"With an event this size you never know what's going to happen. so we are all about being peaceful, we are all about the safety and security of those who might come join us. We do need to have a place to plan out and be prepared,'' said Ayende Alcala.

Alcala said the Solidarity Center will do just that, offering support and uniting over 80 organizations.

"We want to lift them up all at the same time in a way that we are all standing together. Letting everyone know that our visions or our understanding, our passions may all be on different fronts. But they all stand on the same foundation,'' said Alcala.


The Coalition to March on Wall Street South members hope to keep the center open long after the DNC.

March on Wall Street South will be held on September 2 from 11:00 a.m. To 6:00 p.m., starting in Frazier Park.