Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) — The PURPLE Coalition made its public debut at the historic Old State Capitol Rotunda, marking the beginning of what they call a bold new movement aimed at amplifying community voices and demanding accountability from local leadership.

Activist Vanessa Knox explained the meaning behind the acronym PURPLE, emphasizing the coalition’s commitment to “purpose, unity, reform, progress, leadership, and wisdom.”

Organizers say this is just the beginning. County Board Member Reggie Guyton announced that the coalition plans to host forums, engage with local boards, and push for reform across Springfield.

Activist Tiara Standage said “we will keep listening, keep organizing and keep pushing until justice, transparency, and compassion are the standard, not the exception.”

The coalition is also rallying support for justice in the case of Sonya Massey; a Springfield woman fatally shot in her home by former Sangamon County Sheriff’s Deputy Sean Grayson. Grayson’s jury trial is set to begin Monday, October 20th in Peoria. The PURPLE Coalition is inviting community members to join them in Peoria that day to stand in solidarity with Massey’s family.