SYLACAUGA, Ala. – The City of Sylacauga has granted protest permits for Friday to the organization Peacefully Chanting, which is based out of Talladega County.
According to Sylacauga Mayor Jim Heigl, an organized demonstration will take place on Friday, June 5 in front of City Hall at 6:00 p.m. to protest the unjustified murders of African-Americans by law enforcement in America. Heigl says that he granted the permit to peacefully protest, and his decision was constitutionally based.
According to Peacefully Chanting member Kendra Bradford, the main goal of the protest is to portray peace.
“The message we are trying to convey is that we want peace, equality and justice for all,” said Bradford. “We stand against police brutality and injustice no matter what race or ethnicity a person is. We are firm believers that any act of racism, discrimination or injustice is wrong, and we ask anyone who feels the same way to come out and stand with us.”
“When the peaceful protests are by people using their First Amendment rights and are getting out and speaking, showing solidarity, supporting a common goal and wanting to see change made for good, then I am all for it because it is what our country is founded on,” said Sylacauga Police Chief Kelley Johnson.
The protest will begin at City Hall, with a march to Noble Park following, whereas the protest will conclude.
“Sylacauga is a beautiful town, and we respect our citizens,” said Heigl. “I am sure that our citizens will respect our city and demonstrate respectfully, not only out of respect for our city, but also out of respect for the memory of George Floyd who died unnecessarily.”
“We will have security in the areas to protect them, and to make sure that things go smoothly,” said Heigl. “We are not going to interfere with them, and as long as everybody behaves themselves, we will have no reason to react to anything. Overall, we just hope that everybody uses good common sense, and allows the people to express their views.”
Peacefully Chanting told SylacaugaNews.com it is not affiliated with the protest planned for Thursday, which has not been requested to the city.
