March 20 Declared 'Day of Unity' in Honor of Osaze Osagie
On Monday, March 7th, as we approach the third anniversary of Osaze’s death, it was declared at the State College Borough council meeting that March 20th will be a Day of Unity, Remembering Osaze Osagie. Mayor Ezra Nanes read a proclamation calling “on all members of government and the people of State College to recognize March 20, 2022, as a Day of Unity, remembering Osaze Osagie and to pledge ourselves to continue the work together in the spirit of kindness, compassion, empathy, respect and unity.”
The official proclamation for Day of Unity, Remembering Osaze Osagie
Iyun and Sylvester Osagie accepted the proclamation at the meeting, and Iyun made this speech thanking the borough for recognizing the day:
Thanks to the Mayor, the Council, and the City of State College for recognizing March 20, 2022 as a Day of Unity—racial unity. It is in the interest of all peoples, of all persuasions, to know and feel they belong to this town, unafraid, and free to breathe. Being a visible minority carries special burdens peculiar only to those who live in their skin. We have to make sure that we are free; free to live, free to breathe, and free to love. I believe that Love conquers everything, and today this show of unity is deeply appreciated. Love never fails. Thank you.
— Iyunolu Osagie
For more about this proclamation, please see news articles linked below.