Peaceful Protests Held Across Rhode Island Over The Weekend

NARRAGANSETT, RI — Peaceful protests were held across Rhode Island this weekend calling for racial justice in the wake of the death of George Floyd, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Gatherings were held in Providence, Narragansett, Newport, Bristol and other communities.

A crowd lined Ocean Road in Narragansett holding signs reading "black lives matter" and "say his name: George Floyd." The gathering remained peaceful, and many attendees were seen wearing masks. Narragansett police attended, as well, and showed their support for the demonstration, one attendee said.

A large protest held at the State House Friday night remained peaceful, as well, despite tensions rising after the sun went down. Gov. Gina Raimondo pleaded with the crowd to "stay peaceful tonight," and State Police Col. James Manni said he was very happy with how the situation was handled, and that no arrests had been made.

Also over the weekend, Allie's Donuts in North Kingstown sparked national controversy after announced that they will no longer offer discounts to police and members of the military, saying "until local police take action to solve problems with racism and injustice, Allie's Donuts will stand choose to stand with the people of our great state."

The Rhode Island Department of Health and Gov. Gina Raimondo reminded Rhode Islanders that the country is still in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, and urged all protest attendees to use caution: wearing a mask, holding signs instead of shouting chants, social distancing as much as possible and self-monitoring for symptoms afterwards. Volunteers from the department have begun attending large protests, offering information about safety measures, handing out masks and standing in solidarity.

Read more:

• RI Donut Shop Sparks Controversy After Ending Police Discount
• 'Keep It Peaceful Tonight,' Raimondo Pleads To Protesters
  
• Cranston Mayor Reinstates Overnight Curfew
  
• Aquidneck Island Prepares For Weekend Protests
  
• 'Unequivocally, Black Lives Matter': Raimondo
  
• Rhode Island Works To Make Protests Safer From Coronavirus