Just before the Baltimore Uprising popped off on April 18, 2015 (the night before Freddie Gray died as a result of police brutality), Orlando “Magik” Gilyard and his friend Gary Johnson called a meeting of the Bloods, Crips, and Black Guerrilla Family. By the time the masses congregated at City Hall that day, they announced they reached a truce to support the uprising and protect their communities. The gang truce laid the foundation for broader unity with the Nation of Islam, other religious leaders, and communities from across the city.
The Indianapolis Liberation Center was honored to host Gilyard as part of this year’s Black August Liberation Forum organized by PSL Indianapolis. Learn the truth about the gang truce, what really went down in Baltimore, the consequences these brave community leaders faced (but didn’t fear), and how the truce continues to play out in the streets today.
Orlando Gilyard: Building unity that lasts
Featured photo: Orlando Gilyard with a celebration of the gang truce in the background. Credit: Orlando Gilyard.
