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age:18 When George Floyd died in Minneapolis in May 2 0 2 0 , it sparked an international movement for racial justice. Christian E dwards, even though he was a very recent graduate of King’s Fork High School at the time, felt motivated to do something. “I was really, really emotional in the wake of the George Floyd protest and everything that was going on,” he said. “It was really starting to dishearten me with everything that was going on in our world and seeing how my people were being treated. I decided it was time for me to use my voice and speak up.” Christian created a video and shared it on social media, and it got a lot of engagement. That’s when he decided to do even more. Only a little over a week after Floyd’s death, Christian organiz ed a protest march in downtown Suffolk, which drew hundreds of people from all walks of life. Christian said he plans to continue his activism. “It is something that is on my mind and I still participate in in college,” he said. “I intend on doing more when I get back home for the summer.” Christian attends George Mason U niversity, where he is working toward a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in printmaking and book arts. “I’ve always been interested in art, and I feel like art is a way to reach people and connect with people,” he said. L ooking toward the future,
‘I’ve always been interested in art, and I feel like art is a way to reach people and connect with people.’ Christian sees himself continuing both in artwork and activism. “In 10 years, I would like to have some type of media release, whether that’s a book of clothing or things of that sort,” he said. “I would like to be traveling and just doing all that I can to raise awareness for activism and Black L ives Matter. “I also just want to be still creating art,” he added. “I would like to have a studio at that point, not just creating art but selling my art and teaching people how to do art.” Christian draws inspiration from his mom, Shirron Sears, who is an entrepreneur. She owns Care @ Its Best In-Home Health Care Services. “Nothing would have been possible without my mom,” he said. “I really appreciate her being in my life, because she is truly an inspiration to me.” — T r ac y A g n ew
Christian Edwards What is your favorite food? Lasagna What is your favorite movie? “The Breakfast Club”
