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A group of local photographers will offer a special opportunity for the class of 2020 Thursday afternoon at the Washington waterfront. During the event, students will have the opportunity to have 10-15 free, professional photographs taken, and will also receive free T-shirts bearing a message of racial solidarity.

“Any senior is welcome to come, but it is a celebration in particular for our minority communities,” said organizer Michelle Hooper.

Pictures will be taken at the boardwalk in front of the North Carolina Estuarium, the gazebo at Festival Park, the waterfront along Stewart Parkway and the old Maola milk factory.

Each location will have two to three photographers, as well as three teachers and volunteers to assist in gathering names and email addresses to send photo albums.

In order to maintain social distancing and avoid large crowds, organizers ask that students show up during the following time slots according to the first letter of their last names:

• 4 p.m. — A – E
• 4:30 p.m. — F – J
• 5 p.m. — K – N
• 5:30 p.m. — O – R
• 6 p.m. — S – Z

Each participating student will receive a free T-shirt bearing the message “Class of 2020 Solidarity,” designed and donated by Amy Ducos of Rock and Roar Creative. Photographers participating in the event include Hooper, Jennifer Walker, Scott Clark, Tiffani Davis, Princess Topping, Kim Velasco, Tony Krantz and Matt McCotter.

In order to offset the cost of the event, organizers are raising money through a GoFundMe account at gofundme.com/class-of-2020-solidarity. Any surplus beyond the $3,500 goal will be donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs in Washington and Belhaven.

“This event is in the spirit of inclusivity and kindness for us here in Beaufort County, and potentially to inspire other people and places to seek compassion and unity in diversity, as well,” Hooper wrote on social media. “We invite you to celebrate and uplift with us by donating and sharing this information with local Class of 2020 graduating seniors and parents!”