Demonstrators hold ‘Black Lives Matter’ protest in Nashville on Fourth of July – NewsChannel5.com

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The group, Teens 4 Equality, held a protest and march in hopes of making the “Fourth of July look a little different this year.”

Six teens girls created the group following nation-wide protests that were sparked by the deaths of George Floyd and Bronna Taylor.

They held their first march on June 5. More than 10,000 people flooded the streets of downtown Nashville to demand an end to police brutality and justice for the recent victims – Floyd and Taylor, who were killed at the hands of officers.

Saturday’s march began at 4 p.m. at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. Supplies were set up for those participating as well as a voter registration table.

During the march, the group plans to stop at Legislative Plaza to create a memorial for six people killed by officers, George Floyd, Elijah McClain, Daniel Hambrick, Jocques Clemmons, Breonna Taylor, and Rayshard Brooks.

Framed photos will be placed at the plaza, and organizers encouraged participants to bring flowers, signs, stuffed animals or anything else they want to lay at the memorial.

The group held a moment of silence in honor of the lives lost. Shortly after, a powerful moment unfolded as Vickie Hambrick and Jocques Clemmons Lee spoke to the crowd and remembered their sons.

Daniel Hambrick and Jocques Clemmons both died after being shot by Metro Nashville Police officers.

As people began to leave the march, some stayed at the foot of the Capitol celebrating with a live band and dancing.

down by the riverside

Part of the group who remained at the Capitol steps moved a barrier blocking the steps entrance. They climbed up the stairs and where a monument once stood. Several were taken into custody by state troopers. The Black Lives Matter march had ended by the time the arrests took place.

The Metro Nashville Police Department said “thank you” to the many activists for the peaceful demonstration.