Two events aimed at protesting racism and promoting social justice are scheduled Monday evening in Jefferson City.
A "Rally for Black Lives" is planned from 5-7 p.m. at the Missouri State Capitol, according to an event posted to Facebook by The WE Project, a group that works to "celebrate marginalized communities and foster intersectional dialogue to fight for radical equity and justice," according to its Facebook page. The WE Project is publicizing the event on behalf of another group that wishes to remain anonymous, according to the Facebook event.
From 6:30-9:30 p.m., an event called "I Can Breathe; So I Won't Be Quiet" is to start at the Capitol and travel to Lincoln University.
"We as a group will be walking, silently, from the State Capitol to the Lincoln University Quad," organizers wrote in a Facebook event page. "This protest is a cry for justice for the multiple black lives lost at the hands of police brutality, and those who simply have faced the injustices of the failed system."
Organizers of both events noted they are being held in light of the May 25 death of George Floyd. Floyd, a handcuffed black man, was filmed pleading for air as a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee against Floyd's neck for several minutes. The officer has been charged with murder.
All Missouri state office buildings and the Missouri State Capitol were set to close at 3 p.m. "as a precautionary measure and due to potential traffic disruptions and street closures," Office of Administration spokesman Chris Moreland confirmed.
The Jefferson City Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry canceled all adult and youth programs and activities for Monday evening, with Washington Park Ice Arena and Oak Hills Golf Center closing at 6 p.m.
Lincoln University closed its offices and evacuated employees from its campus at noon, according to a Facebook post from the university.
Lincoln University Police Chief Gary Hill said his entire staff will be on duty tonight.
"We don't know what to expect, but organizers have told us this will be a peaceful protest," Hill said. "We always hope for the best."
Jefferson City Police Department spokesman Lt. David Williams said his department is aware of the scheduled protests.
"We are continuing the cooperating efforts of local law enforcement," Williams said.
This article was updated at 2:55 p.m. and 4:10 June 1, 2020, with additional details.