Barnstable Police to Gather with Community For ‘Unity Day’

HYANNIS – “People of Action”, the Barnstable Police Department and the Town of Barnstable are teaming up to hold “Unity Day” at the Hyannis Village Green on Friday.

The event is being held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and is intended to engage the community and local police together in a free celebration that includes food, music, raffles and children’s activities.

“This is intended for all members of the community to join together peacefully with the Barnstable Police Department to show appreciation for one another and just enjoy the day on the village green,” said Barnstable Police Sergeant Sean Sweeney.

Andre and Jesse Barboza, two brothers from Hyannis, reached out to Barnstable Police Chief Paul MacDonald about holding a community gathering in light of events making headlines around the country.

“It’s quite evident with this Unity Day and how they approached us, there could’ve been a group of people that approached us that said no, we want to march against the police, this is just the opposite and I have to commend these people for doing that,” said Sweeney.

Jesse formed “People of Action”, which is a group of people who decided to come together and take action in making the community proud and address issues head-on to make a difference.

“This is an opportunity for everyone to come together and celebrate our differences,” said Barboza. “We may not always see eye to eye, but we must learn to build trust and respect amongst one another.”

The event is open to the public and participants are asked to bring their own chairs and blankets.