In Northern Virginia, Fairfax County Police assisted in Manassas when demonstrations there “became violent as some of the protesters proceeded into Sudley Rd., stopping traffic, and throwing objects at passing motorists and officers,” according to Prince William Police.
Other protests in the area have been peaceful, including the “I Can’t Breathe – Silent Walk” in Leesburg, which drew 1,000 demonstrators.
Showing up for Racial Justice Northern Virginia (SURJ) plans demonstrators with signs and practicing social distancing at police headquarters in Alexandria and Fairfax County “to hold vigils marking a week of action to end white silence” on Tuesday, June 2 from 6-7 p.m. 3600 Wheeler Ave., Alexandria, VA and 12099 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA
Governor Ralph Northam on Sunday, May 31, declared a state of emergency and authorized assistance to localities in response to escalating protests across the Commonwealth. The Governor granted a request from Mayor Levar Stoney to extend a curfew in the City of Richmond.
“This emergency declaration will provide the necessary support to localities as they work to keep our communities safe,” said Governor Northam. “There are many voices speaking out for justice and healing across the United States and in our Commonwealth, but others are exploiting this pain and inciting violence.”
A state of emergency allows the Commonwealth to mobilize resources, including the Virginia National Guard, and pre-position people and equipment to assist localities in their efforts to de-escalate violent protests and protect public safety.
The declaration allocates $350,000 for state and local governments and state response and recovery operations authorized and coordinated through the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.
The full text of the emergency declaration can be found at https://www.governor.virginia.gov/media/governorvirginiagov/executive-actions/EO-64-Declaration-of-a-State-of-Emergency-Due-to-Civil-Unrest-and-Institution-of-a-Curfew-in-the-City-of-Richmond.pdf
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