Give Peace A Chance:After Election Results, Julia Wallerce Starts Peace Gathering for Everyone

By Kate Anslinger

After last week’s national election of Donald Trump over Hillary Clinton, there were gatherings in many areas for people to express themselves, but one Winthrop woman called for a peace gathering to help people on both sides move forward.

As part of the organized peace gathering, about 30 Winthrop residents joined together at Ingleside Park on Sunday evening to simply spread words of kindness. The nonpartisan event was organized by resident Julia Prange Wallerce and was set in motion to bring people together instead of driving them apart.

“I want us to be part of a community where love comes first,” said Wallerce as she opened up the conversation and gave others the opportunity to speak and share their thoughts about what it means to support and tolerate one another.

“Thank you for doing this,” said former Board of Health member Tracey Honan. “I’m glad someone put this together because it’s nice to be around like-minded people.”

Children and parents united making signs that spread words of love and peace and several joined together and held peace candles. The signs were later hung on the gazebo in the park.

“I was crying when I woke up on Wednesday morning,” said nine-year-old, Elaine Freeman, who attended with her parents. “I was scared about the future.”

“I didn’t support Hillary because she is a woman, I supported her because she is the best candidate,” said School Committee member Valentino Capobianco, who was moved by the gathering.

“I fear for our children and grandchildren,” said resident Donna Reilly, “But, I’m extremely happy to see such a good number of people here of all ages. It’s nice to know that you all have a set of values.”