'Save the Historic Fayetteville Market House' group gathers to show support for building

The majority of people who gathered at City Hall on Monday said they want to keep the Market House because its a part of history, not hate.

Others said its a symbol of dark times for African-Americans.

“This is a decision that the impact could be tremendous for a long time to come. We are a very diverse city about half and half black and white and others, so we want to make a decision that will benefit the entire community," said Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin.

The city is taking its time when it comes to the fate of the historic market in downtown Fayetteville.

Last month, city leaders voted to remove the Market House from the city seal.

“It’s been in the community a while. It represented some dark times for people of color to where family members and people were sold and families were split," said Colvin. "To other people, it represents a historical perspective of the building and architecture.“

A group called Save the Historic Fayetteville Market House gathered around City Hall to show their support for the building, which they call a staple of the community.

“[The] Market House has always been a symbol of Fayetteville. I would go so far to say that the Market House is the heart of Fayetteville," said group member Michael Pinkston.

The group said that it’s part of history and has a lot to teach the younger generations.

"[The] Market House is history. A lot of things happen in the Market House that shouldn’t of happened. A lot of things happen in the Market House that should’ve happened. I think it’s a good educational tool for our kids so we don’t repeat history," said group member Ron Ross.

The group chanted "All lives matter" and attended the City Council meeting virtually to make their voices heard.

"[We] have a long road ahead of us to figure out how we get to a compromise position," said Colvin.

The group working to save the Market House has started a petition with nearly 14,000 signatures.

Colvin said it'll be weeks, if not months, of discussion before a decision about the Market House is made.