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The event was originally scheduled at 6 p.m. on Nov. 14 but was forced to cancel because its permit through the Rutherford Civil Rights Commission was pulled. The commission indicated to organizers that it can't support the gathering for unspecified reasons.
The concept was conceived by resident Chris Moore, who said he will make sure the gathering is rescheduled in some capacity. Having local restaurants host it is a secondary option if the park can't be used.
"I was told there was a scheduling conflict but people also hinted that it was something else," said Moore. "I don't know what the conversation was between the Civil RIghts Commission and the town."
No one from the Rutherford Civil Rights Commission was reachable on Sunday.
Moore said he is having a special meeting with borough officials on Monday night to discuss having a gathering and obtaining a permit.
"I'll find out if there was a legitimate reason to say no. It'll give me more time to get the word out, maybe get colleges involved," said Moore.
The gathering was informally organized through Facebook's Rutherford RIOT group; RIOT is an acronym for "Residents Improving Our Town." Someone from the Rutherford Civil Rights Commission reached out and volunteered to be the conduit for the event and obtain the permit, Moore said.
"I never tried to get a permit in town. I wasn't sure what to do," said Moore.
The occasion was intended to bring people together and light candles in peace. Children were invited to bring chalk and draw or write a message of peace, love and friendship.
"This is an event to remind our community that no matter what our views are, that we will stand together against hate and division. No matter what your religion, your political views, your gender, your sexuality, or your ethnicity, we are all humans," organizers said in a Facebook post for the event.
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