About three dozen protesters fell to the ground Thursday in a “die-in” at Campus Martius in downtown Detroit to show opposition to the grand jury decision not to indict a New York City cop in the chokehold death of Eric Garner.
The peaceful, poignant gathering gave way to civil disobedience as most of the protesters marched up Woodward, blocking northbound traffic, en route to Wayne State University.
“No justice, no peace!” protesters chanted.
After about a half hour, protesters made an impromptu decision to march north on Woodward. Police showed no resistance and essentially escorted the protesters to Wayne State University. Squad cars and a police bus followed close behind.
Protesters turned west on Warren en route to Wayne State.
Once at Wayne State, several protesters delivered speeches about the importance of ending police brutality and reforming the racially biased judicial system.
Following the speeches, the protesters marched into South Hall on campus as classes were in session. Some students walked out of the classrooms and cheered on the protesters.
No arrests were made, so the police bus was never needed, but its presence was intimidating.
Protesters returned to downtown, blocking the southbound lane of Woodward. Police on horses followed closely.
The march ended peacefully at Campus Martius at 2:30 p.m.
Photos: ‘Die-in’ rally in downtown Detroit gives way to civil disobedience added by Steve Neavling on
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Steve Neavling
Steve Neavling lives and works in Detroit as an investigative journalist. His stories have uncovered corruption, led to arrests and reforms and prompted FBI investigations.
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