More than 30 Mid-Missourians gathered Saturday morning at the state Capitol to support the swift and safe return of 273 high school girls stolen from their dorm rooms in Nigeria.
The Zumunta Association USA Inc. organized similar rallies at the same time in Atlanta, Los Angeles, Chicago, New York City, Houston and Washington, D.C.
"We hope to fight not with weapons but with the magic power of influence of the United States," said organizer Francis John.
The schoolgirls, ages 16-18, were kidnapped late at night on April 14 from the school dormitory by Boko Haram terrorists.
The website www.bringbackourgirls.us was created a week later. And within two weeks, 500 Nigerians marched in Abuja demanding more be done. The story did not reach the U.S. until May 1.
Events like the one Saturday, drawing Christians and Muslims alike, have swept the U.S. in an effort to boost awareness. Those gathered at the Capitol hope the U.S. will use its influence to bring about the girls' safe release, Ogugua Anunoby said.
The Nigerian community in Mid-Missouri shares ideas and problems and "walks together as a community away from home," said Martin Shinkut, a Lincoln University professor.
"Our message is this is not acceptable," he continued.
Children and elders, black and white, men and women held signs and wore red T-shirts on the south steps, expressed their concerns and sang songs.
Confident U.S. pressure will result in the girls' freedom, John said his organization Hope Africa is looking forward.
"After we bring them back, we need to raise funds and get materials for them," John said.
Boko Haram is translated as "Western education is a sin." Originally, the organization was called the Nigerian Taliban. This year, Boko Haram has been responsible for 1,500 deaths, including 59 schoolboys.
Unicef has said educating girls has "proven to be one of the most cost-effective strategies to promote development and economic growth. Studies have shown that educated mothers tend to have healthier, better nourished babies, and that their own children are more likely to attend school; thus helping break the vicious cycle of poverty."