RVA 2020: BOARDED UP OR BROKEN UP

Sunday brought a different vibe to the various protests in the Capital City. Being a holy day, and with the establishment of an 8 PM citywide curfew, I noticed more daytime demonstrations. At least one peaceful gathering featured prominent leaders in Richmond’s hip-hop community: Noah-O, Radio B, Black Liq and (Cheats Movement contributor) Justin Sexton, just to name a few.

Princess Blanding, sister of the late Marcus-David Peters, who was killed by Richmond Police in 2018, spoke powerful words at a rally near the reconciliation statue; continuing a call by several grassroots organizations for a citizen’s review board over police activity.

Once 8 PM hit – there were still mass gatherings: mostly East of Broad and Belvidere (near the VCU Campus). One strange report of violence I heard was Richmond Police pepper-spraying a local VPM reporter – after the reporter identified himself and presented his credentials: Mayor Stoney has announced they are investigating.

This morning, I took more photos of Monument Avenue and Broad Street. My favorite is “Black Lives Matter on Broad.”

I want to take a moment to thank everyone who is going LIVE on social media, recording and photographing Richmond during this time. Your work is essential right now. #WESEEIT