GLYNN COUNTY, Ga. — Supporters across the country ran 2.23 miles Friday on what would have been Ahmaud Arbery’s 26th birthday.
The number 2.23 signifies the date Arbery was shot and killed in a Brunswick neighborhood. Arbery’s family and friends said he had been out for an afternoon jog when he was targeted and killed.
[Celebrities, athletes use social media to #RunWithMaud]
Two and half months later, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was requested to investigate.
Channel 2′s Lori Wilson spoke with runners from South Fulton Running Partners, the oldest black running club in the country, who are joining the #IRunWithMaud movement Friday.
“That could have been any one of us. And so we just wanted to show Ahmaud and his family some support,” said J.R. Hughes.
While social distancing, the group joined together to take a stand.
“We want to show that we are here, we are runners and we don’t pose a threat. We’re just running,” Coordinator Diane Brown said.
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#IRunwithMaud gained attention across the country and on social media. People who wanted to were asked to participate virtually by posting a message, photo or video using the hashtag.
“Our community here in Brunswick, GA, lost an avid runner. On 2/23/2020, while out on a run Ahmaud Arbery’s life was taken away from us, by a group of men who falsely suspected him of wrong doing,” said a Facebook page dedicated to the run. “Please show your support as a runner, jogger, or walker and dedicate a 2.23 mile workout to Ahmaud Arbery, in your favorite place to run or walk. Let’s create positive videos for this family. Thanks.”
The Atlanta Track Club was among the groups inviting runners to join in the 2.23 miles. #IRunwithMaud was trending on social media all day Friday.
The Georgia NAACP also organized a rally outside the Glynn County courthouse. Local activists had been pushing for the arrests of the McMichaels since the shooting happened in February.
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