Black Lives Matter protest
RESIDENTS in Bridgend have gathered for a peaceful Black Lives Matter protest with a two-minute silence to commemorate those who have died from police brutality.
RESIDENTS in Bridgend gathered for a peaceful Black Lives Matter protest with a two-minute silence to commemorate those who have died from police brutality.
Around 100 people attended the protest at Newbridge Fields on Friday afternoon.
Maddy Chelmis helped organise the protest to “highlight that racism has no place in our society”.
She said: “It’s only right to support the fight for basic human rights that some people are still fighting for.
“Many think that a small town can’t make an impact, but if everyone stayed silent then there would be no change. To bring attention to the issue is to provoke change.”
Miss Chelmis, 19, said social-distancing measures had been a priority. A Facebook page was set up beforehand, encouraging anyone planning to attend to wear a mask, stay two metres apart and follow the five-mile travel rule.
One protester said: “It was organised, peaceful and everyone respected social distancing guidelines. I really feel proud of today’s youth and hopeful for the future in bringing about change to stamp out systemic racism.”
Anna Morgan helped to arrange the protest. She said there had been concerns around social distancing.
She said: “I know that some people in the community weren’t happy with this happening and we appreciate that. No one would choose to have to do this during a global pandemic. But momentum is lost so quickly in times like this and we have to support others when we can.”