Protestors joined by community leaders in Seaside

SEASIDE, Calif. (KION) Seaside Police Chief Abdul Pridgen stood alongside hundreds at city hall Tuesday.

"We are all part of the community. If they would allow us, we would like to join with them," said Pridgen.

The group participated in a moment of silence for George Floyd, who died after an encounter with a Minnesota police officer. Now, people are demanding police reform.

"If people are mistreated in the community, they need to come to me and and expect me to do better and improve the way we police," said Pridgen.

The message was boldly stated in the signs, chants and actions of people who protested in Seaside. Many told KION they were there for family.

"I'm here for my nephew. I want to make his life better, so he doesn't have to go through all of this," said Charlize Mitchell.

The rally turned emotional for many as countless stories were shared.

"The skin that I was born in did not allow me to sit back in silence. I am the mother of two sons and and two daughters. We have all experienced racism and police brutality," said Rosalyn Green.

Community members volunteered to set up a first aid tent. The tent was stocked with a variety of essential items that protestors may have needed.

"With large crowds you can expect anything from people getting sick in the sun, bumping into each other, falling down. If anything happens we want to be able to help out," said volunteer Matt Weed.

Several protests across the nation have turned violent, but organizers in Seaside asked for peace.

"It's so empowering because in other places people are looting. Everyone is getting along here. Monterey County as a community is really strong in coming together," said Chad Gentry.