Marshall University had its annual Unity Walk Tuesday.

The Unity Walk brought students, faculty, staff, alumni, campus organizations, athletic teams and Greek organizations out to participate in the walk in a time when some citizens believe the country needs to see appreciation for diversity.

Groups started walking at the Rec Center and from there, participants walked on the outside of campus to the front of Old Main and then all met on the plaza of the Memorial Student Center.

Maurice Cooley, associate vice president for intercultural affairs, said this is a time to embrace and celebrate our differences as brothers and sisters in the university while speaking to the crowd on the plaza.

Michael Gilliam, junior computer applications major, said he thinks it is important to hold events like the Unity Walk with everything that is going on in the country.

“It brings everyone together in a world where people are subliminally segregated against each other,” Gilliam said. “So just how everyone can come out together for one purpose as a whole is great to see. I think the Unity Walk is a great way Marshall exemplifies its diversity as a university.”

After walking, participants took the opportunity to learn more about each group in attendance. A representative from each group came to the stage to give a 30-second speech.

Food was available for everyone who came out and a DJ was playing music to keep attendees entertained.

“I loved everyone’s enthusiasm. Everyone who was there seems genuinely happy to be there,” said Alexis Tyson, sophomore finance major. “It gave a greater sense of community at Marshall.”

Michael Brown can be contacted at [email protected].