PHOENIX — Police Chief Jeri Williams and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego made a joint appearance as mothers Saturday at the Black Mothers Forum in downtown Phoenix.
Black Mothers Forum is a group of mothers in Phoenix who work to the school to prison pipeline for Black Americans.
Mayor Gallego and Chief Williams, both mothers, joined other moms on stage during the event located at Eastlake Park at Jefferson and 15th streets in downtown Phoenix.
"I'm not here as a white woman, i'm not here as a Mayor. I'm here as a mother," said Mayor Gallego to the crowd.
"We want to partner with people in the community who are interested in positive change," said Mayor Gallego afterward to ABC15. "This was a great event of mothers who want to do better for our sons. We are both mothers of sons and we are committed to leaving them with a better world than the one we inherited."
"Amen," added Chief Williams.
Moms in attendance found the presence of the chief and mayor inspiring.
"I think it's absolutely amazing that our leaders are stepping in, showing that they care, showing face," said Theresa Ambwe, a mother who attended the rally with her four-year-old daughter.
"What she said is 'I'm a mother first.' for me, that meant a lot, but I'd also like to see if she is going to hold the police accountable," said mom Jala Moore.
On Friday, Chief Williams joining the march on Downtown Phoenix protesting police brutality. In her speech to protestors, she said, "We hear you." A sentiment echoed again on Saturday.
"I would like to hear what they want to see changed, said Chief Williams. "it's one thing for the establishment to keep coming up with those solutions. We're listening."
