Peaceful Protest Lines Chelan Avenue Saturday

Demonstrators met in Memorial Park in Wenatchee Saturday afternoon before marching to 5th Street and back in a peaceful protest to fight police brutality against people of color.

The event followed the death of George Floyd in police custody six days earlier. Video of Floyd passing away underneath the knee of a white Minneapolis police officer has sparked riots across the country.

The demonstration began with a moment of silence for Floyd.

Organizer Chloe Williams stated that all lives cannot matter until black lives matter.

Williams said, "Make all the movements known, put it all over social media. Get your word out. Peacefully protest as much as you can. Sign petitions. There's a phone number you can call about pressuring the attorney to get the charges higher on those policemen."

Former officer Derek Chauvin was fired from the Minneapolis Police Department, along with three other officers, before he was charged with 3rd degree murder and manslaughter Friday.

Over 300 protesters took part in the march and demonstration.

Organizers requested that all signs refrain from disparaging remarks about the police. Many of those in attendance wore protective face masks and coverings.

Williams said that this is an issue that all Americans must deal with, even those Americans that don't believe they have a dog in the fight.

"If you feel like you can't be part of this movement, but you still want to help, just spread the message. Post on social media, tell your friends, get the word out." added Williams, "Because the more we get the word out, the more voices get heard, and the more change happens."

A memorial-style gathering for George Floyd is scheduled for 6:00 pm Monday at Memorial Park.