Hundreds walk 50 miles in 'Love Forward Together' movement in North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Hundreds of people walked 50 miles from Wilson to Raleigh as part of the "Love Forward Together" movement, demonstrating physical and moral endurance.

"I had to be here on the last day. I've been here for three days; the people are beautiful," said Susan Cortiled-Jones, an attendee.

"We are here to mobilize unity in our community so that we can come together and be as one," added Linda and Terry Bristowe, also attendees.

The group, accompanied by civil rights leader Bishop William J. Barber II, walked to the Capitol to highlight the power of love and its ability to drive change. They protested what they described as relentless policy violence against poor and low-income people.

"Everything can be conquered through love. I loved the message. So many things we are fighting for like voting, education, citizenship," said Teresa Ashe, an attendee.

Presenters also emphasized the importance of voting in the 2026 North Carolina primary elections.

"We should all be emailing our local and state and federal people. But we also have to come together in public so say we are united together. We are not in this alone," Ashe said.

"I hope people will be inspired to get out. Be active and be creative," Cortiled-Jones added.