Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered in Fairfax County on the first day of a temporary truce between Israel and Hamas. Part of the crowd marched through the streets to The Grove as part of a nationwide effort calling for a permanent ceasefire in the war and an end to US aid to Israel.
Supporters of the “Shut It Down for Palestine” campaign organized boycotts, riots and rallies across the country on Black Friday.
The group did not gather until 10:00 a.m. at Pan Pacific Park next to The Grove, where there were many Black Friday shoppers. Several hundred protesters then began to march outdoors
Mall itself.
The group eventually gathered at the intersection of Third Street and Fairfax Avenue, where many sat at the intersection. The group also called in several trucks to block traffic in all directions. Reports on the ground indicated that there were minor clashes during the march, but there were no immediate reports of arrests or injuries.
Officers from the Los Angeles Police Department were stationed around the entrances to The Grove to prevent protesters from re-entering the mall or Farmers’ Market grounds.
In response to the march, the LAPD issued a citywide tactical alert, which allows the department to have officers work outside of their normal shifts to respond to a major incident.
“The goal of the LAPD is to ensure public safety for ALL while promoting the First Amendment rights of peaceful protesters,” the department said in a statement. “Similarly, when individuals commit acts of violence, the department will enforce the law.”
City News Service contributed to this report.
Source: Deadline
Elizabeth Cabrera is an author and journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a talent for staying up-to-date on the latest news and trends, Elizabeth is dedicated to delivering informative and engaging articles that keep readers informed on the latest developments.
