Edinburgh to join Black Lives Matter protest over George Floyd's death

Campaigners want Scotland to show its support for action against racism.

Edinburgh is set to join a worldwide Black Lives Matter (BLM) protest over the unlawful killing of an unarmed black man by police in the US.

Demonstrations and riots have been happening in states across America during the last six days as the country mourns George Floyd, who was killed in Minneapolis on Monday.

Thousands took to the streets in London over the weekend to stand in solidarity for the 46-year-old who died in police custody while an officer kneeled on his neck to pin him down.

Former officer Derek Chauvin has been arrested and charged with third degree murder and manslaughter following Mr Floyd’s death.

Activists in Scotland’s capital have arranged a peaceful protest to show the country’s support for action against racism and discrimination on Sunday, June 7.

Those wishing to join have been asked to meet at the East side of Princes Street Gardens near the Scottish National Gallery for about 1pm.

A Black Lives Matter campaigner

Organisers have stressed the protest will be peaceful and all those involved are reminded to wear a mask and to keep at a two metre distance from each other at all times.

A post on the event page reads: “As America mourns the loss of George Floyd, killed by a police officer, London has announced its protest on the 7. Scotland needs to join everyone and show our support against racism and discrimination as this is very much alive in the UK/Scotland.

“Please meet at the East side of Princes Street Gardens by the Gallery.

“Please also wear a mask and bring water and food.

“This is a peaceful protest not a riot. Please keep a 2m distance at all times.”

BLM campaigners in Glasgow have also arranged a protest in memory of Mr Floyd which will take place in Glasgow Green on the same day from 2pm.

While certain lockdown measures have been lifted in Scotland, social distancing restrictions remain in place and mass gatherings are still not permitted.

Residents are allowed to meet up with members of one other household outdoors in parks or gardens with a maximum of eight people, provided they keep two metres apart.