The organiser of today’s Black Lives Matter protest in Aberdeen has called for “continuous action” to tackle racism.
Third year economics student Olaoluwa Akisanya will lead the peaceful protest on Union Street between 1pm and 3pm.
The 23-year-old is president of the African and Caribbean Society at Aberdeen University and arranged the event to stand in solidarity with the US.
He hopes it will enable peoples’ voices to be heard in the fight against racism in the hope it will help spark a change.
Mr Akisanya said: “I believe for us to progress as a community these types of demonstrations and these protests are important for change.
“I was born and raised in Aberdeen so to see the community come together is amazing.
“We are encouraging people to bring signs, but the most important thing is for people to bring themselves and their voices.
“The main goal is to empower the community in tackling issues we face and have an outlet for those affected by injustices.
“It is healthy for people to express this in a way that can bring positive change.”
The protest has been organised in cooperation police as steward volunteers will be present to advise on social distancing, alongside first-aider’s and volunteers supplying water, hand sanitiser and PPE.
Organisers are expecting around 300 people to attend the event and have praised the “overwhelming” support they have received from local businesses and the community.
Mr Akisanya added: “One thing we want to stress is that we urge for continuous action against the issues that black lives are facing every day and not just on the one occasion.
“We plan to take action in numerous different ways.
“There are different routes to take, including petitions and donations.
“Protests are an important way of getting the message across, but not the only one.”
People can get in touch on the Facebook page, Aberdeen Black Lives Matter Protest.
