CROWDS of peaceful protestors will demonstrate in Colchester tomorrow afternoon in a show of solidarity against systemic racism and police brutality. 

Organised by students at the University of Essex, the momentous gathering will take place in Castle Park, in the High Street.

Guests are encouraged to take along placards featuring powerful messages, but to also be mindful of social distancing restrictions, and use face masks and hand sanitiser. 

The Black Lives Matter event will see people from all walks of life come together in support of equality and to make a stand against prejudice and discrimination. 
Gazette: Location - the event will be held in Castle ParkLocation - the event will be held in Castle Park

Those looking to attend are invited to arrive at lower Castle Park at 1pm, before a speech explaining the purpose of the demonstration rings out roughly 15 minutes later. 

At 1.30pm, the protesters will honour the memory of George Floyd, who died after being pinned down by a police officer in the US, by taking a knee and engaging in a moment of silence. 

Any guests who wish to speak at the protest - be it about their experiences with racism or the importance of the Black Lives Matter movement - will also be given the time and opportunity to do so. 

There had been plans for activists to also march through the town centre, but these have now been scrapped by organisers, to ensure social distancing restrictions are adhered to and the public are kept safe. 

Speaking earlier this week about the demonstration, Sophie, 21, who has been instrumental in arranging the protest, called on people to make their voices heard. 

“It has taken a lot for me to pluck up the courage to organise this event but this demonstration is important because change has to happen," she said.

“We can’t sit at home and expect change to happen without actively going out and having our voices heard.

“I do not condone violence so this protest is going to be peaceful, and there will be a big emphasise on that.”

To find out more about the Black Lives Matter Colchester event click here.