Manchester will stand united.
Joining the world as we band together in support of the #BlackLivesMatter movement, a peaceful protest has been planned for this weekend, following a large number of protests that took place in the US and in London just last week.
Organised with the aim of educating the streets of Manchester and bringing attention to the movement, the campaign will take place in Piccadilly Gardens, honouring the deaths of the innocent lives that have been taken over the years – including George Floyd, who was killed by a police officer on May 25, 2020. Video footage from the incident, which shows a white officer kneeling on Floyd’s neck, has sparked international outrage, resulting in thousands across the world joining in solidarity.
Planned for 1pm, Saturday June 6, Manchester residents are invited to stand together in the name of justice for black lives – with organisers urging those who do attend to stick to the government’s social distancing guidelines and respect the intention of the event, which is to remain peaceful.
Advice given includes not attending if you display signs of COVID-19, making sure loved ones know your whereabouts, bringing water, snacks and cash, and ensuring you’re two metres apart from other protesters while you’re there.
In addition to the global protests, supporters have been donating to George Floyd’s memorial fund, which was created to help support his children in the aftermath of his death and pay for his funeral costs. For those who’d like to support in other ways, a number of petitions which urge the local authorities to file charges against those responsible have been created, with millions signing already.