Protestors demonstrate outside of a burning Minneapolis 3rd Police Precinct, Thursday, May 28, 2020, in Minneapolis. Protests over the death of George Floyd, a black man who died in police custody Monday, broke out in Minneapolis for a third straight night. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)AP
A grassroots political group based in New Jersey is planning to gather Saturday in Newark to protest the killing of George Floyd by a police officer in Minneapolis who had earlier arrested him for forgery.
The People’s Organization for Progress, which was formed to eradicate racism and take on relevant social issues, will protest beginning at 1 p.m. at the Lincoln statue, located at West Market Street and Springfield Avenue. Protesters are asked to arrive by 12:45 p.m.
The group met via teleconference Thursday night and decided unanimously to protest, inviting the public to attend, according to its chairman, Larry Hamm.
“The circumstances of Mr. Floyd’s death were horrific,” Hamm said. “We’re encouraging every person who is outraged about this murder to join us.”
Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, died Monday after Derek Chauvin, a white Minneapolis police officer, knelt on his neck for several minutes while Floyd was handcuffed.
Floyd, who was not armed and did not appear to be resisting arrest, was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
Four police officers who were at the scene have been fired. Floyd’s family and many across the country who are outraged by the killing have called for the former cops to be arrested.
The death sparked nationwide protests, many of them turning violent. In Minnesota, the protests continued on Friday with widespread looting and arson. In New York, dozens of protesters were arrested this week.
Hamm said The People’s Organization for Progress includes among its goals advocating human and civil rights and promoting world peace.
Everyone who participates in Saturday’s protest is asked to wear a face mask, gloves and to practice social distancing.
Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.
Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at [email protected].
Note to readers: if you purchase something through one of our affiliate links we may earn a commission.
