They came in their hundreds to support their cause, as anti racism protesters gathered in Newcastle.
On Saturday they met in Times Square after the protest turned violent last weekend and organisers of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) campaign changed their venue to avoid trouble.
Dozens of police officers were on standby to deter any repercussions of the previous protest as it shifted from Grey’s Monument.
And today’s protest went off peacefully.
Organisers of the city’s third Black Lives Matter protest in as many weeks moved their demonstration to preserve a “family-friendly atmosphere” and “make sure that people have their voices heard and declare Black Lives Matter in a safe space”.
Police arrested 14 people following clashes with 'Defenders of Newcastle' last weekend which saw missiles thrown and objects hurled, which injured officers, Police dogs and horses.
And on Thursday, five further arrests were made with police warning of more action to come.
BLM protesters were keen to carry out a peaceful demonstration this Saturday, which was spurred into action by the killing of George Floyd in the US.
Many demonstrators wore masks and socially distanced while music and a band played to give a festival-like atmosphere.
Only hours before the midday demonstration, counter protesters posted on their Facebook page: "TODAY'S PROTEST CANCELLED.
"Section 14 order in place for the all assemblies around Monument on Sat 20th June, so The Defenders will no longer be holding the planned counter protest to the Black Lives Matter march. Thanks to all who were planning to show up and show support."
Anti-racism activists took to the stage as they said “We are the generation who are going to make a change.”
Judith Mbuyi, 24, from Blakelaw, Newcastle, came to the #BLM protest with her brother Johnny, 27, because she hopes to improve the future for black women.
She said:”I am here today because one, I am black and two, because I am a black woman and we are socially at the bottom of the ladder... and I want to fight for my future son or daughter, so we can have the same rights.”
Ellie Lloyd and Alice Durkin, both 17, travelled from Darlington.
Ellie said:”We came to show our support and solidarity..
0 Comments
Write us a comment for more information.