NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) – A grand jury’s decision in Missouri has sparked protests across the country, even in New Orleans. Locals gathered at Lafayette Square Tuesday night to express disappointment and their continued support for justice.
They took to the street in a show of solidarity.
Tuesday’s demonstration in New Orleans was one of several held across the country in the wake of a grand jury decision not to indict Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson in the August 9th shooting death of teenager Michael Brown.
“I cried, I got angry, I screamed at the television and yet I felt like a sense of this was only what I expected,” Rev. Melanie Morel-Ensminger said.
Hundreds gathered at Lafayette Square, before marching through the Central Business District.
Some held up signs of other high profile police shootings involving white officers, and black victims; while others held up their hands in an unarmed manner chanting “don’t shoot.”
Locals said they felt it was their duty to participate.
“Especially I think us white people who don’t have the same challenges with law enforcement all around the country. That people of color and especially black people have,” Morel-Ensminger said.
“Obviously I feel I have to come out as a black person to support the black community.” Kelly Gaines said.
Back in Missouri, despite an increased presence of police and National Guard troops there’s been widespread chaos.
Twelve commercial buildings burned down during protests that erupted after the grand jury’s decision was announced. Other businesses were looted, and vehicles torched.
“I don’t agree where they’re doing it. If they’re going to do it they should do it in the neighborhoods of the elected officials and those who can make the change. I don’t agree with doing it in your neighborhood,” Darrell Tobias said.
The crowd was vocal about their support, but they’re frustrated because they realize it will not change the decision.
“For a grand jury to find no evidence for a reason to look into it any further is just so sad as an American,” Morel-Ensminger said.
The Brown family attorney hopes a federal civil rights investigation results in charges against Wilson.
Another New Orleans rally is set for Sunday at noon in Lee Circle.
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Xavier University students and community leaders gather to protest Michael Brown grand jury decision
