Community Corner

Black Sand Peace Paddle In Manhattan Beach Draws 200+ Supporters

The surfing community as well as Manhattan Beach residents turned out in a show of solidarity for Black surfers in Manhattan Beach Feb. 21.

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Some 200 people showed up in solidarity for The Black Sand Peace Paddle after a racial incident sparked outrage earlier in the week in the ocean amongst surfers just north of the Manhattan Beach Pier. (Jefferson Graham)
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Some 200 people showed up in solidarity for The Black Sand Peace Paddle after a racial incident sparked outrage earlier in the week in the ocean amongst surfers just north of the Manhattan Beach Pier. (Jefferson Graham)

By Jefferson Graham

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — About 200 people showed up early in Manhattan Beach Sunday morning for a rally to decry recent racism at the beach. The Black Sand Peace Paddle event started at 7 a.m. and was led by Sal Masekela, a TV host best known for his stint at ESPN.

After the opening remarks, just after 7:30 a.m., the assembled surfers entered the water, in a show of solidarity and peace.

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