JEANERETTE — “Stop the violence, we won’t be silenced” was the rallying cry for more than 100 Jeanerette residents who attended the vigil of a slain resident during the town’s Mardi Gras parade last week. 

The life of Dante Archangel was remembered after the tragic shooting that took place Feb. 4 on Monnot Road during the Krewe of Ezana Mardi Gras Parade. The leaders of P.U.S.H, or Pray Until Something Happens, consoled the family and friends of Archangel Friday night with the power of prayer. 

Event-goers marched from Cypremort Street to the King Joseph Recreation Center in memory of Archangel. It was also a chance to take action against the violence happening in Iberia Parish with the power of prayer. 

“We’re going to pray until something happens,” was the Rev. Wilfred Johnson’s mantra that was repeated by marchers as the walk took place. 

After the march, there was a ceremony with local pastors and public officials speaking to the family of Archangel and Jeanerette residents. 

“Let us know what we can do for you,” Jeanerette Mayor Aprill Foulcard said. “I’m praying for not only our community, our parish, out state and out country for peace. Let’s learn to love one another, let’s learn to work with one another.”

“This is not something that’s happening only in Jeanerette, this is not something that’s only happening in Iberia Parish,” Parish President Larry Richard said. “This is happening across the United States and abroad, and at some point it’s got to stop.”

The Rev. Zack Mitchell, president of the Iberia Christian Ministerial Federation, used the opportunity to remind the young people attending that their lives can still take a turn for the better. 

“There is a life and a destiny ahead of you,” Mitchell said. We’re not here promoting any particular religion or church, we’re promoting the answer. There’s only one answer and his name is Jesus.”

Earlier that day, arrests were made in relation to Archangel’s death. Family members and friends were clearly still processing the death of Archangel at the event. 

The vigil ended near the spot where Archangel was killed. More than 100 people formed a line to place a candle at the site of Archangel’s death, with emotional reactions abounding. 

“I want to thank Jeanerette, you turned out tonight,” Johnson said.