In an expression of solidarity with peaceful protesters around the country, staff at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital and the Windemere Nursing and Rehabilitation Center held a kneel-in Friday afternoon at the hospital campus in Oak Bluffs.

Thaddeus Thompson, hospital administrative director, led the event.

Jeanna Shepard

Thaddeus Thompson, hospital administrative director, led the event.

Jeanna Shepard

Led by administrative director Thaddeus Thompson, the moving event included nine minutes of silence to protest racial injustice. The six Island police chiefs also attended.

Mr. Thompson and hospital president and chief executive officer Denise Schepici both made remarks.

Held at the hospital’s healing garden, the event followed other demonstrations held on the Vineyard throughout the week, including a student-led peaceful protest attended by hundreds Monday afternoon at Five Corners in Vineyard Haven.

“We are pledging to use our voices, privileges and resources to confront racism in our own lives in our own institution,” a hospital statement said.

Demonstrations continue tonight in Aquinnah, where an event is planned at the Circle with drumming, speaking and sharing. It begins at 7 p.m.

More pictures.