KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A protest is planned in downtown Kalamazoo Monday night at 7:30 p.m., according to social media posts made on Facebook.
The protest is meant to stand in solidarity with 20-year-old Daunte Wright, a black man who was shot and killed by a police officer during a traffic stop Sunday in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota.
As a result, Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) Chief Vernon Coakley released a video Monday night, reminding residents of what the guidelines are for a planned protest.
“I want to be clear, Kalamazoo. In the city, we support citizens’ rights to peacefully protest in our city,” Chief Coakley said in the video. “That means residents are free to assemble at city parks or on sidewalks without reserving the space, applying for a permit or paying a fee.”
However, there are limitations, Chief Coakley said.
“Demonstrating in the street or attempts to disrupt traffic will not be tolerated,” Chief Coakley said. “KDPS will enforce this and all first amendment policies. Failure to clear the street after being asked to do so will result in a misdemeanor and possibly an arrest.”
Coakley added that his top priority is keeping a safe environment in the city, and further reading on gathering guidelines can be found at the city website.
Readers can view the video message from Chief Coakley below:
The City of Kalamazoo saw a series of protests after the death of George Floyd last summer, including a Proud Boys rally in August that turned violent.
More information on those stories can be found here.
