Eric Garner's family, officials hold memorial service in wake of $5.9 million settlement with New York City
NEW YORK (WABC) -- City leaders, clergy, police, and Eric Garner's family gathered as one Tuesday night to pray and focus on moving forward.
The point made that good policing is like a good marriage, where both sides need to know and respect the other.
The most symbolic moment came at the end; the candle lighting service. The borough commander and Eric Garner's mother were asked to light a unity candle together then blow out their individual candles.
"It was beautiful, beautiful in unity," Garner's mother said.
At the prayer service in Staten Island, city leaders and clergy of all faiths were asked to pray and speak about healing, forgiveness, and a better tomorrow.
"May this occasion of drying of tears and turning to God be a time of reconciliation," Cardinal Dolan said.
"We can reach out and try to feel each other's pain, and then maybe healing can begin," Rev. Al Sharpton said.
"All lives matter," Mayor Bill de Blasio said.
Tuesday night's service comes after the city in the family of Eric Garner agreed to a $5.9 million settlement.
It was nearly one year ago when Garner died after being put in an apparent chokehold.
Police were trying to arrest the 43-year-old for selling loose cigarettes.
His death ignited debates and protest across the nation.
"I won't ever forgive the officer, that won't ever happen, but I feel the city's love," Garner's widow said.
Eric Garner's family also spoke earlier regarding their multi-million dollar settlement.
They made it clear they do not consider it an occasion for a victory party.
Sharpton and the Garner family are hosting a rally on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. at the U.S. Federal Courthouse Eastern District Cadman Plaza.
