300 protesters rally in Richland over racial injustice. 2 more demonstrations planned
At least 300 people lined both sides of George Washington Way near John Dam Plaza during a rally over racial inequality Friday.
The Peaceful Protest Against Systemic Racism started at 10 a.m. and was expect to last until 2 p.m.
One man was arrested at the Richland rally after he pulled out a gun during a confrontation with others in the crowd.
Richland police were called and arrested him for intimidation. Brandon Reid Bourne, 32, was booked into the Benton County jail, with bail set at $1,000.
Police told the Herald he is not from the Tri-Cities and believe he is not aligned with any particular group.
Other Black Lives Matter rallies against racial inequity are planned Friday evening and Saturday in Pasco.
The death of the George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officers on Memorial Day has sparked more than a week of protests including ones in Richland, Pasco and Kennewick.
Locking arms
People plan to “lock arms” to protect businesses in downtown Pasco on Friday night.
They are gathering at 6 p.m. in the Pasco Farmers Market area. The attendees will then disperse to stand in front of small businesses. The Facebook event page asks attendees to wear all black shirts that say “You are protected” or “Black Lives Matter.”
“Why is it that all these men and women can stand outside in front of a business with big guns,” organizers said. “This is only showing these kids violence with violence. We must be that change and let our peace be heard.”
People are asked to wear protective masks and bring hand sanitizer. Organizers also asked participants to bring a candle to have a candlelit viewing.
Protest for George Floyd
A “Pasco Protest for George Floyd” at 11 a.m. Saturday starts in front of Albertsons on 20th Avenue. The event is being led by Irene Mendoza, Jaime Torres and the Justice League. Torres led the protests in Pasco and in Richland during last weekend. About 65 people have signed up to join the protest according to the Facebook page.
“In this moment and at this time we are standing for and fighting for our beautiful black brothers and sisters,” according to the protest’s Facebook page.
They are also asking people to stand six feet away from each other, wear masks and stay on the sidewalks. They do not plan to march this time.
This story was originally published June 4, 2020 at 12:58 PM.