PRESS RELEASE: McKinney Students Lead “Hate Stops Here, March for Peace” Rally

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 18, 2026

Media Contact:
Jeremy Sutka, Chair
Collin County Democratic Party
469-450-8791
chair@collindemocrats.org

McKinney Students Lead “Hate Stops Here, March for Peace” Rally — Collin County Democratic Party Joins in Solidarity

 

McKINNEY, Texas — A coalition of student organizers led by James Houston will host the “Hate Stops Here, March for Peace” rally on Sunday, February 22, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, beginning at McKinney High School and concluding at Glenn Mitchell Park in Historic Downtown McKinney. The Collin County Democratic Party (CCDP) is proud to promote and participate in this student-led demonstration, standing with young voices who refuse to let hate define their community.

 

The rally and march, organized by students, is a call to unity in a time of division. According to the event description, it is about “protecting our classmates, our families, and our future. It is about showing that McKinney’s residents, young and old, will not be silent in the face of prejudice or intimidation.” Organizers emphasize that peace is an active, collective choice: “built when ordinary people step forward together.”

 

The CCDP affirms its full support for the march and the First Amendment rights of all people to peacefully protest and speak out against hate and intimidation. The party encourages its members and all community allies to join the rally and demonstrate that McKinney stands united.

 

Event Details:

  • What: “Hate Stops Here, March for Peace” Rally
  • Who: Student organizers led by James Houston of McKinney High School Democrats, supported by the Collin County Democratic Party and community members
  • When: Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
  • Where: Gather at McKinney High School (1400 Wilson Creek Pkwy, McKinney, TX 75069). The march will proceed to Glenn Mitchell Park in Historic Downtown McKinney.

 

Organizers have stated a core principle of firm commitment to nonviolent action. All participants are expected to act lawfully, de-escalate any confrontation, and treat everyone with respect and restraint. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, are highly discouraged. The focus remains on unity and a message of peace.

 

For complete details and updates, participants are encouraged to visit:

 

The Collin County Democratic Party calls on the community to join these young leaders, to march for peace, and to send a clear message that hatred has no home in McKinney.

 

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About the Collin County Democratic Party:
The Collin County Democratic Party is dedicated to organizing, mobilizing, and electing Democrats who fight for justice, opportunity, and equality for all. Representing the sixth-largest and fastest-growing major county in Texas, the CCDP builds a people-powered movement for lasting change.