The Justice for Black Lives Rally will take place on Saturday, June 6 at 2 pm, according to the Athens Anti-Discrimination Movement (AADM). Organizers have been coordinating with the Athens-Clarke County Police Department and City Manager Blaine Williams regarding safety measures and rumors spreading around the community.
Athens Police Chief Cleveland Spruill confirmed to organizers that the city has received no threats in relation to the events planned Saturday. The department also posted a message Friday stating: “We have not recommended that any business board up.”
“I understand that people are nervous, but we must
move forward with wisdom and without fear,” said AADM co-founder Mokah Jasmine Johnson. “Black people in this country are in danger every day. But we cannot let fear stop us from speaking out for our right to be safe in our communities.”
Organizers have also introduced measures to reduce the risk of spreading the COVID-19 coronavirus. The event will occur only at City Hall and will not include a march, thereby allowing participants to more effectively maintain physical distance. For those who would prefer to participate online, a livestream of the event will take place on the AADM Facebook page.
People who have already been exposed to the coronavirus as well as the elderly and immunocompromised are encouraged not to participate in person. Medical stations will be set up
on site to provide aid for participants, if needed, as well as hand sanitizer and masks.