George Floyd Protests Planned in Chippewa Valley Today, Thursday, and Friday
Rebecca Mennecke, photos by Eric Christenson |
Menomonie Stands With George Floyd
Wednesday, June 3 • 5-9pm • corner of Broadway and Main Street • Menomonie
A protest in Menomonie is happening today from 5-9pm at the corners of Broadway and Main Street.
“As the nation is angered, it is important we stay strong and vigilant in remaining peaceful in our community’s protest,” the Facebook event reads, “and demanding our nation brings an end to senseless police violence and murders that continue to affect the black community day in and day out.”
Protesters will practice social distancing protocol, and organizers encourage everyone to wear masks while gathering.
They ask that attendees bring posters and materials relevant to the conversation about the death of George Floyd, #BlackLivesMatter, and police reform.
“We will be occupying the sidewalks, stretching up those streets, staying out of the roads, protecting each other and our businesses, and collecting donations to bring out to sanctuaries on the UW-Stout Administration lawn right on Main Street,” organizer Jacob Doherty said.
After the protest, you can donate your signs to the Dunn County Historical Society.
For more information, check out the Facebook event page at www.facebook.com/events/1924803544323573/ or contact Doherty at jakedanield95@gmail.com.
EAU CLAIRE
Justice 4 George Floyd and BLM Eau Claire Community Rally
Thursday, June 4 • 5-8pm • Owen Park • Eau Claire
Thursday at Owen Park, a rally organized by local activist Violet Kilmurray seeks to “celebrate the lives of those lost to racism and police brutality, build community, and push for change.”
It will take place 5-8pm on Thursday, June 4, at Owen Park in Eau Claire.
“I wanted to organize this event to give a space for healing and hope within the Eau Claire community,” Kilmurray said. “I want this space to be about acknowledging the wrongs, working to right them, and healing together while still doing our best to social distance and be aware of the pandemic.”
Attendees can bring a picnic-style meal or eat beforehand, but folks should plan to sit in socially distant groups at least six feet away from others.
So far, Kilmurray says they have five confirmed contributions to the event including speeches, spoken word, musical improv, and yoga/meditation. People interested in speaking or performing can reach out to Kilmurray at violetkilmurray@gmail.com, with priority for BIPOC (black, indigenous, and people of color) individuals.
“I am hoping to facilitate conversations about (the) healing revolution,” Kilmurray said. “We need radical change, but we also can’t do it at the furthered expense of communities of color.”
For more information, check out the event Facebook page at www.facebook.com/events/238146300820478/permalink/238777970757311/ or email Kilmurray at violetkilmurray@gmail.com.
Protest For Peace/Pick Up the Earth
Friday, June 5 • 6-7pm • Phoenix Park • Eau Claire
Justin Vernon and local activist Jaylin Carlson are among a group of speakers at Friday’s protest in Phoenix Park, hosted by the organization United We Assemble. The rally kicks off at 6pm with guest speakers until 7pm, when attendees will participate in a march down Farwell Street, Lake Street, and Water Street.
Guest speakers include Dr. Selika Ducksworth-Lawton, Justin Vernon, Zavier Balow, Brittany Tainter, Jaylin Carlson, and Daminiqus Ford.
Organizers encourage attendees to bring snacks, water, garbage bags, and sign-making materials. According to the Facebook event, the streets will also be cleared to march.
For more information, check out the Facebook event at www.facebook.com/events/2637478843160598/ or email Zavier Balow at zavierbalow@gmail.com.
