Statement from Rev. Patrick Harley and the leadership of Evergreen Presbyterian Church Condemning Police Aggression at the No Kings Rally

March 31, 2026

The leadership of Evergreen Presbyterian Church stands united in condemning the aggressive actions taken by the Memphis Police Department during the No Kings Rally on Saturday, March 28. Our faith calls us to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly, and to radically love and demand dignity for all people, particularly those who are marginalized. What transpired on that day was a violation of these principles and an affront to the sacred rights of free speech, peaceful assembly, and protest. Our city is not made better by law enforcement attacking peaceful protestors.

We are deeply troubled by the excessive force and the blatant disregard for the peaceful nature of the rally, which was intended to call attention to the issues of local inequity, continued rise of authoritarianism, social injustice, and the systemic abuse of power. The actions of the Memphis Police were not only unprovoked but also served to escalate an already tense situation, further illustrating the concerns of those gathering at No Kings.

We ask local leaders to continue the work of seeking accountability and offering transparency, and we support the demands listed in Indivisible Memphis’ Social Media Statement from March 30, alongside the many organizations that have signed on to support the demands.

To the officers who have been put on leave: You can live your life differently. Open your hearts and minds, seek reconciliation, be the loving and peaceful version of yourself knowing you are a child of God, and even consider visiting us at Evergreen, unarmed, and not in uniform. 

To all of those in law enforcement and in city leadership: Speak out against the local occupation and authoritarianism. Stop working with ICE. Stop this cruelty. You have influence and we ask that you use it. If you’ve come to Memphis as part of the unSafe Task Force, you are not welcome or needed in our city. If you come back as a visitor to enjoy our culture and all that’s on offer, we’ll welcome you with open arms.

We pray for healing for those who were harmed and for the continued strength of all who strive to create a world where equity, peace, and justice are upheld. We also urge everyone who partners with Evergreen, others in the Christian faith, and those of other faith traditions and goodwill to remain steadfast in advocating for systemic change that respects the dignity of every person and stands against authoritarianism.

Our city can be better, can be more just, and can be more loving if we unite against the values of empire, the values of authoritarianism.

Written by Rev. Patrick Harley, Pastor, Evergreen Presbyterian Church

With support from the Session of Evergreen:

Jeff Blankenship

Susan Bransford, Clerk of Session

Mark Hamilton

Rene Kuttenkuler

Kat Leache

Amri McCauley

Jan Shivley

Liana Venezia