Demonstrators call for end to systemic racism, new Police Commissioner in Springfield
By Lexi Oliver, Olivia Hickey Springfield community and faith leaders gathered Saturday to call for the dismissal of Police Commissioner Cheryl Clapprood and to address what they call systemic racism in the city. Hundreds of demonstrators met at Adams Park and marched down to Wesley United Methodist Church on State Street. They said they want to ask the mayor if he believes systemic racism exists in the city. “Things will not get better in the city of Springfield until we have new leadership,” said Charles Stokes, a community organizer. Springfield community leaders gathered on Saturday, to call for Police Commissioner