A week after a woman is killed counter-protesting white nationalists and Neo-Nazi's in Charlottesville, people in Astoria find solace by uniting with the community.
Members of different faiths and local groups gathered Saturday to advocate for love over hate.
During the prayer circle, participants meditated and got a chance to speak their mind about violence they've seen at home and elsewhere.
Organizers say they hope the gathering will empower the community.
"It's important for us to open a place for people to have a voice in response to the violence," said organizer Reverend Thia Reggio.
"I really hope people feel a sense of connection to each other, feel that they're being held in love,"said organizer Rabbi Rachel Goldenberg.
Kids and their parents decorated hearts to send to the family of Heather Heyer, who was killed during the Charlottesville protests.