Annual Roc the Peace fest brings community together

Growing up as a western New York native in the mid-1980s, I felt an overwhelming sense of togetherness and belonging that at times now seems missing in Rochester, and in larger society as well.

With that in mind, the Roc the Peace fest — for the past five years — has become a key event for the community, drawing residents and groups from all economic walks and ethnicities, fostering goodwill and a commitment to nonviolence.

Designed to bring awareness and resources to victims of violence, Roc the Peace began in earnest in response to a mother, Sirena Cotton, losing two sons to street violence. Cotton saw the value in bringing together mutually invested community groups and leaders to address a larger common interest; a common need.

This year's daylong fest has a theme of “Am I living to die?”, a poignant, perhaps jarring sentiment felt by many local youth.

A half-dozen weekly prayer marches in some of the most violence-affected areas of the city precede this year’s event. Representatives from the church community, academic and business arenas, health sector, city government and law enforcement will be in attendance.

Up-and-coming local artists will meet to exchange ideas, showcase their talent and network face-to-face in an era dominated by virtual communication. Free food will be on hand, as well as face painting and other activities for the children.

There are relatively few opportunities for gatherings of this kind in the area. Jones Park sits at the heart of Rochester’s Northwest quadrant, perhaps the most racially diverse part of the city.

Increasing in size annually, the fest provides a moment each year for people to feel that sense of togetherness, reminiscent of a time when communities felt closer and people were warmer and more thoughtful toward each other.

The goal, however, is not to simply have a great moment, but to create new partnerships and ongoing commitments to change.

Ongoing local academic performance, high crime and poverty are continuous topics — often provoking vitriolic debates — on Internet boards and radio broadcasts. Nationally, historic incidents involving police brutality, the removal of the Confederate flag and riots have sparked a renewed discussion on race.

In gathering and feeding into more positive energy rather than negative, we can aggressively create a new reality. This feeling of my childhood on the Southern Tier was of safety, and no expectation of danger. That is a certainty when associated with close-knit, peaceful and flourishing communities.

This is a “vibe” that has to continue to resonate everyday among those positioned to help change other’s lives. It is all of our duty as adults and community members to foster an environment where expectations of a better, safer future are the norm.

Carlos Coker is a Rochester recording artist and activist who volunteers for Roc the Peace