A peaceful protest in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter (BLM) marches happening around the globe will take place at 4 p.m. today in Pullman, according to a Facebook event.
“I hope that you will all join us to peacefully demonstrate and send a message to the world that our community is here to support our (people of color) community members,” the Facebook event said.
Protests have erupted across the U.S. in response to the actions of a Minneapolis police officer responsible for the death of George Floyd, a black man. The white officer, Derek Chauvin, was captured on video pressing his knee into Floyd’s neck, who can be heard pleading “I can’t breathe,” repeatedly before he eventually becomes unresponsive.
Chauvin has since been fired and charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter, according to an article from the New York Times.
Pullman Police officer Todd Dow said the organizer of Pullman’s protest notified the department in advance, and they don’t expect any violence.
“Our plan really is just to give them space and let them voice their opinions,” Dow said. “We’ll be close by in case something does happen.”
In a statement Friday, Pullman Police Department Chief Gary Jenkins condemned the actions of the Minneapolis police officer responsible for Floyd’s death and said his department is disgusted by the incident.
The Facebook event for Pullman’s protest has asked protestors to stay six feet apart and wear personal protective equipment like masks and gloves. The post also says violence and non-peaceful demonstrations will not be tolerated.
The march will go through downtown Pullman, beginning at the Gladdish Community center parking lot.
The Argonaut will continue to follow this story.
Angela Palermo can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @apalermooo