A group of students and alumni from George Mason University have organized a peaceful demonstration at the Field House on Friday, June 12, at 5:30 p.m.
The event is being held in response to the death of George Floyd, which sparked a movement across the United States and internationally, calling for an end to racism and police brutality.
“This is our cry out for help,” said Deion Maith, an integrative studies student who is organizing the protest with events management student Janell Armstead, alumna Marissa Daily, and film and video studies major Taj Kokayi. “At the end of the day, it’s not about rioting, it’s about the fact that people are losing their lives simply based on the color of their skin.”
Students, alumni, faculty and staff are invited to attend, Maith said. Although the demonstration is not an official university event, it has been approved by the Events Exceptions Committee, with the expectation that all will wear masks and adhere to social distancing protocols.
The protest will commemorate George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and other victims, including those who remain nameless or unknown, Armstead wrote in an email.
Several community members are scheduled to speak at the protest.
The event will conclude with a march to the George Mason statue and a prayer.
Street parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis near the Field House located at 4501 University Drive, Fairfax, Virginia.