MARQUETTE, MI-- People across the country have been protesting the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week, after an officer knelt on his neck for several minutes. The City of Marquette is no exception.
On Saturday demonstrators bearing signs gathered in front of the Post Office. Later, another group gathered on Northern Michigan University’s campus, then walked down Third Street to the Marquette Police Station. They carried signs saying “Black Lives Matter” and “I Can’t Breathe.” One woman stepped on the front of a police SUV that was trying to leave the parking lot, but police did not engage and no other issues were reported.
Even more people marched in Marquette Sunday, taking up one lane mostly on Washington and Baraga streets. No police were present as they yelled “Hands up—don’t shoot” and rallied at the Marquette County Sheriff’s Office. The event remained peaceful.
Marquette Mayor Jenna Smith posted a YouTube video Saturday afternoon. She said she was proud of citizens willing to stand up for what they believe in. She urged them to keep the protests peaceful and to follow social distancing guidelines.
