The effort is spearheaded by Councilmember Castañeda López, Mayor Mike Duggan and Cynthia Pasky, Strategic Staffing Solutions CEO and Chair of the Downtown Detroit Partnership, with strong support from Detroit City Council.
“The idea to light the city and host a citywide vigil came to me in recognition of the deep pain and brokenness we are all feeling, especially our black community, in light of George Floyd’s murder,” Castañeda López said.
The Mayor said, “I thank CM Castañeda López for presenting this idea, Detroit City Council for its support, and Cindy Pasky for leading our corporate community in this effort and never shying away from taking a strong stance.”
Council President Brenda Jones said, “The symbolic lighting of our downtown area using the color purple illustrates Detroit’s hope for peace and justice in the memory of George Floyd.
So as he in death is enlightening the world, I am proud to join my colleague Councilmember Raquel Castañeda López, along with Mayor Duggan, in calling for businesses to illuminate their buildings with purple light in honor of George Floyd.
