A large group of Turlockers gathered at Monte Vista Crossings on Sunday evening to raise awareness and support Christians and other minority groups affected by the unrest in the Middle East.

The march, organized by Katrina Aoufan, is one of many that have taken place over recent months in Turlock and around the world.

“Our goal is to raise awareness, you know, for the brutality that’s going on against Christians, specifically,” said Aoufan. “Not just Assyrian Christians, but Christians and other minorities all over the world to be exact… We’re trying to raise awareness and be that voice of change.”

The first demonstration took place in June, with a large group marching through Downtown Turlock to raise awareness for the ongoing unrest.

Since then, Turlockers have joined large protests in San Francisco and held lemonade stands to support those affected.

Sunday’s march began at approximately 6 p.m. with a prayer, before the group began marching up and down Monte Vista Avenue with signs and American and Assyrian flags waving.

Many passersby honked in support of the group.

The event concluded with a candlelight vigil at around 8:30 p.m.

Aoufan said that there are plans to hold a prayer vigil the future, but no date is set at this time.