Read on Twitter
I’m here at #VCU’s compass in front of Cabell library where protesters have gathered with three banners reading “Drop the Charges,” “Defund the Police,” and “Stop the Evictions” leaning against the library windows. Today marks the 55th day of #BlackLivesMatter 
protests in #RVA.
protests in #RVA.
Around 90-100 protesters are out here today, scattered around the compass and on the grass of the library. There’s around ten large packages of water bottles and waffles catered by Campus Waffle for the protesters.
Going live with speeches and demonstrations from @studentpowervcu organizers.
VCU SGA president, Taylor Maloney, is reading the names of the police officers in the VCUPD. “We are calling for the complete abolition of the VCU police force,” Maloney said.
Princess Blanding, the sister of Marcus-David Peters has begun speaking at the microphone, giving an account of Marcus-David Peters’ life.
“When we fight together we have the strength to win. We will not just defund the VCU police, we’re going to defund the Richmond police and the sheriff’s department,” Richmond city council candidate Nicholas Da Silva said before Princess Blanding began her speech.
Another student power organizer has begun a speech on the history of student organizing. Tune in to the livestream to listen to the speakers and demonstrators.
“Mental health crises require mental health professionals, not police officers,” another student power organizer said.
“Are y’all really going to pay for VCU Zoom university?” “No,” the crowd responds. “VCU is gutting y’all for your money,” Kalia Harris said.
Harris ended her speech with a chant: “Back up back up we want our freedom freedom, all these racist cops we don’t need ‘em need ‘em.”
Protesters have taped the list of demands and written “Abolish VCUPD” on the windows of the library and have written Marcus-David Peters name all over the compass in chalk.
The protesters at the compass have dispersed but the chalk writings all over the compass will serve as a reminder to VCU of their presence. Check @theCT for more updates and an upcoming story of tonight’s protest. Thank you all for tuning in.
