RALEIGH -- All different colors, all different ages, all with the same goal in mind: To put a little pressure on state politicians.

Thousands turned out this weekend for the NAACP's Historic Thousands on Jones Street unity rally and march.

Organizers say it’s their way of taking part in the political process.

"We’re going to help them do the right thing. Only 56 percent of the bills that we put forward came to the floor. But the ones that did come to the floor and were seen [were] passed. We know when we get them out of the back room and onto the floor they will pass," said North Carolina's NAACP president Rev. William Barber.

The rally brought more than 80 various civic, religious, and social justice organizations to Chavis Park in support of a 14 point agenda which focuses on North Carolina's health, education, and social programs.

"It reflects a growing movement in the state that brings together a whole range of issues that are important to all the people in the state," said attendee Chip Smith.

Added Nichele Fulmore, "When I look behind me, this is amazing, a change is on its way definitely," she said about the thousands gathered.

A change supporters hope will follow on the heels of their march.

From Chavis Park, to the streets of downtown Raleigh and onto the steps of the State Legislature they marched, all confident that change is just another step away.

A new agenda item for this year involved reducing legal misconduct.

On hand during the rally was James Johnson, who spent nearly 3.5 years in jail awaiting trial on the murder and rape charges in connection to the killing of 17-year-old Brittany Willis.

Another man confessed to the crime and the charges were dropped. But now Johnson has been charged with accessory after the fact.

During the rally it was announced the U.S. Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey has agreed to review the case.