Protest Through Artistic Expression Set In Somerville Saturday

SOMERVILLE, NJ — A peaceful protest through artistic expression will be held on Saturday at the Somerville Courthouse Green to fight against systematic racism.

Stage Stars Productions is hosting a family-friendly "Create Change: A Peaceful Protest Through The Arts" from 1 to 3:30 p.m. off Main Street in Somerville featuring Black artists.

"Artistic expression is essential for many of us and we (Stage Stars Productions) wanted to provide a safe space for those who needed that release and wanted to share their feelings with the community," Stage Stars Productions stated.

The protest lineup:

• 1 p.m. - Opening ceremony and speakers
• 1:30 p.m. - Spoken word artists and vocalists accompanied by dancers
• 2 p.m. - Expression through music and movement session for kids led by an instructor
• 2:30 p.m. - Closing ceremony and speakers

If interested in being one of the artists or speakers at the event, check out the event page.

The peaceful protest in Somerville follows nationwide protests sparked after Floyd, 46, died after then Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin kneeled on his neck for nearly nine minutes. Video, which captured Floyd saying "I can't breathe," went viral, and sparked the nationwide protests. Read More: All 4 Minneapolis Officers Charged As Protests Continue

A protest march was also held last weekend in Somerville which shut down two major highways in Somerset County for protesters to kneel. Read More: Juneteenth Protesters Shut Down 2 Major Somerset County Highways

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