Novato Police Thank Community For Peaceful Protest

NOVATO, CA — Police thanked the community Wednesday for holding a peaceful protest in downtown Novato.

"That is what a protest looks like when the community shows up," Novato police Chief Matthew McCaffrey said.

"I am so proud of our community and how they made their voice heard in such a peaceful manner. I met so many leaders that we are lucky to have engaged in such an important social issue. I was also so impressed with our youth that were present — what an intelligent, passionate group of people; their future is bright."

People with signs lined both sides of the street near Novato City Hall, protesting police brutality and the death of George Floyd, a black man who died Memorial Day in Minneapolis after being taken into police custody.

Novato police shared photos of the crowd on social media, including one with an officer kneeling in solidarity.

"Thank you for keeping this event peaceful," police officials said in a statement. "Your efforts created a safer environment for all. Your fight, is our fight. Together, we will continue to work daily to facilitate Peace among our nation."

Prior to the protest, authorities issued an alert advising the public to avoid the area around the Novato Police Department because they had "limited information about what is being advertised as a peaceful protest and march on Novato Boulevard."