Group holds peaceful protest in memory of George Floyd in Salinas

SALINAS, Calif. (KION) Dozens turned to hundreds in Salinas, Monday. A group chanted, kneeled and held signs in solidarity along West Alisal Street.

"All of these people believe that one person could make a difference. We all came together and are now on a united front," said Tamisha Smith.

People of all ages came together for the cause. Smith brought her daughter and they demonstrated side-by-side.

"I have to raise the awareness of my family. I'm have four daughters that I'm raising with my husband. It's important. This revolution needs to televised. We need to be out here because policy and change needs to happen," said Smith.

Rallies nationwide come on the heels of the death of George Floyd. Floyd died after an encounter with a Minnesota police officer. Now, many are demanding action. "My grandpa had to march. My dad had to march. Now, I have to march," said Isaiah Camel.

Police controlled traffic as the crowd marched through the street.

The rally was peaceful and ended with moments of silence at Salinas City Hall. "We came here peacefully. We protested peacefully. People can see that. All colors are out here," said Karroteh Glasbrenner.

Organizers said it won't stop today. The group is planning to spread their message through Salinas streets.

"This is what's happening in communities across America: peaceful protests," said Samantha Varela.