Thousands rally at Hands Across Hawthorne

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http://portlandcitycenter.katu.com/news/community-spirit/thousands-rally-hands-across-hawthorne/440801

PORTLAND, Ore. -- It was an amazing turnout for an event that was publicized just 72 hours ago with a single Facebook page.

About 2,000 people said they would show up for Hands Across Hawthorne, a rally to show solidarity for a gay couple who was attacked as they walked hand-in-hand across the Hawthorne Bridge recently. But it looked about twice as many people showed up for the rally than originally anticipated.

People were standing up against discrimination. Brad Forkner, one of the men attacked, said he knew the rally wasn't just about the violence against him or his boyfriend Christopher Rosevear.

"Tonight's event and your presence here is about everyone it has happened to, and everyone it will happen to in the future," he said.

The massive group made its way, hand-in-hand, onto the Hawthorne Bridge. They filled it on both sides, crossing the Willamette River, promoting love and decrying hate.

"Because Portland isn't that city-it's a city that really supports its citizens," said participant Geri Berg.

Fellow participant Brandon Eastman-King said, "I've been married to my partner for a few years now, and to have the support of my community when things are going the way they did a week ago. It's important."

These are important steps forward from what happened to Forkner, 23, and his boyfriend last week as they crossed the bridge.

"It was terrible there wasn't a more immediate response to the distress and it's really important for people to turn out and show solidarity," said participant Phil Quarterman.

The event was supported by the Q-Center, Basic Rights Oregon, local churches and others.

The five men who attacked Forkner and Rosevear have yet to be arrested.