Anaheim protest gets off to a quiet start

More than 100 protesters with signs, many sitting on the steps of City Hall for what is billed as a peaceful sit-in, gathered at the start of a 10 a.m. demonstration against police brutality and the death of George Lloyd on Wednesday, June 3.

Police presence was light at the outset, although they’ve announce the closure of streets around the Police Department headquarters as well as Anaheim Boulevard between Broadway and Lincoln Avenue will be closed until further notice.

Jaysom Gilliam, 36, of Buena Park, held a sign that read “I am here 4 My Ancestors” while sitting on the steps. He said the death of Floyd has brought back painful memories of the shooting death of a friend by police in 2007. Gilliam said he is against looting and violence, but wanted to attend the demonstration to show his solidarity with demonstrators.

“It’s a good thing to take a stand against (police) violence, ” he said.

Numerous speakers took turns using a bullhorn to lead the crowd in chants of “No Justice, no peace.” An organizer also urged the crowd to hold up protest signs for a photo and to raise both arms to demonstrate their non-violence.

Anaheim police were hoping that to be the case, tweeting: “A peaceful protest is scheduled for today in front of City Hall. (Anaheim Police Department) officers are present and will be monitoring the demonstration to ensure if stays peaceful.”

A peaceful protest is scheduled for today in front of City Hall. APD officers are present and will be monitoring the demonstration to ensure if stays peaceful. pic.twitter.com/DOvXGEhW4L

— Anaheim PD (@AnaheimPD) June 3, 2020