Summit, Riverchase protests may be cancelled

Two different sources are sending out different messages about protests planned for this afternoon at The Summit and Riverchase Galleria. A press release was sent to news agencies today stating that the demonstrations were cancelled. A new website, blacklivesmatterbham.org, agrees with this statement. However, the original “Black Lives Matter – Birmingham” Facebook page posted an update around 1:30 p.m. that the protests will continue as planned.

The group stated plans earlier this week to attempt to shut down U.S. 280 at 3 p.m. today and hold a “die-in” at the food court of Riverchase Galleria at 4:30 p.m.

The press release stated that the demonstrations have been postponed “pending a legal demonstration permit.” The explanation is attributed to a person named Reginald Jones and says, in part, “According to state laws, we can not cause a disruption in the flow of traffic on Highway 280 or we are subject to arrest and prosecution.”

“It has also been brought to our attention that we can be ‘trespassed’ from the property in both locations. Officials in both locations will have cameras to take pictures and ban us from the property forever. This is not the outcome we want for participants.”

The site’s statement from Reginald Jones also says that a protest is being planned in front of police departments for after the holidays, and more details will be available soon.

The Black Lives Matter Facebook page briefly disappeared this afternoon, but is now back with a message saying “The protest have not been canceled... We will see you at 3 and 4:30!”

Hoover Police Captain Gregg Rector said he has seen this information but cannot confirm if the website source is an authentic spokesperson for the organization. He is inclined to believe the site and press release source is not legitimate. As of now, the police will continue to be prepared for the originally planned events.