
So. Ill. Unity Coalition members (from left) Alex Grabowska, Elise Grabowska, Emerald Avril, Nancy Maxwell, Chastity Mays and Matt Wilson pose for a portrait on Wednesday, Sept. 16 at Crispus Attucks Park in Carbondale. The group is made up of local activists in Southern Illinois.
CARBONDALE — In the weeks and months after George Floyd’s death while pinned under the knee of a Minneapolis police officer, demonstrations spread throughout the country and world — and throughout Southern Illinois.
The social justice movement spurred by Floyd's death, which seeks racial equality and has primarily focused on reform in the criminal justice system, isn’t a new one. Nancy Maxwell, a community organizer from Marion, notes the public may see activism in waves over time, but it’s a fight for the same cause. “We’ve been marching for 50 years now and we shouldn’t have to be in this position to keep marching about the same thing — being mistreated for the color of your skin,” she said.

Community organizers Elise Grabowska, of Carbondale, and Nancy Maxwell, of Marion, pose while recording a video on Sunday in Attucks Park in Carbondale. The group shot the video to promote an upcoming demonstration in Vienna.
Matt Wilson, a community organizer from Carbondale, shared similar sentiments. "The fight has never ended,” he said. “We studied civil rights in history classes, but the same goals and outcomes they were trying to achieve back then are the same ones we’re still trying to achieve. You can’t let the flame die — the torch must always be lit.”
A candlelight vigil held days after Floyd died brought hundreds from the region to Lenus Turley Park in Carbondale. Chastity Mays, a Carbondale mother who planned the event alongside her family, said it was “impactful (to) look out and see such a diverse crowd” and even recalls seeing some people become emotional during the event. “I saw people cry in the audience,” she said. “Tears of a community coming together and acknowledging there's a big problem we have to solve.”
Subsequent demonstrations have varied in size — from only a few people to a June demonstration that brought roughly 800 people to the streets of Carbondale. In the last couple of months, marches have been on the smaller side in Southern Illinois. Some organizers across the country have noted the realities of activism fatigue. “At the end of the day, every day, I feel burned out," Chanelle Helm, the co-founder of Black Lives Matter Louisville said in a 2018 interview with Vice. “The fact is, you’re putting in so much work and don’t always see the results.”
Maxwell has seen a similar fatigue, she said, recalling the 2012 death of Travon Martin, an unarmed Black 17-year-old boy who was shot and killed by a white man. “People were marching everywhere. I even marched here with a group and it was all over the world,” she said. “But then … it just stopped.”
While Maxwell saw a similar trajectory after the first few marches this summer, she said this time it had to be different. “I don't feel like you can quit, you just have to keep going,” she said.
Shortly after Floyd’s death, the So. Ill. Unity Coalition was formed. The group is a self-described “collective of community activists and allies working together to unify the Southern Illinois community through a combination of grassroots efforts and innovative approaches.” The group is made up of various community members across ages and walks of life, including students, business professionals, mothers and community advocates. All have the same goal: keep the movement for change treading forward.
The So. Ill Unity Coalition has organized marches, and they have continued their activism through events designed to bring the community together, including variety shows and shopping events highlighting local Black businesses. Members of the group said their mission goes beyond the protest and relies on being in touch with the community and their needs while celebrating those who are a part of it.
“A way to unite people is to have them in good spirits,” Wilson said. “With the multitude of negative things we see in the media — from the killings and everything else, we need some kind of positivity. If we can come together through music, through dance or through something else to unify us, that’s what we need to do.”

Matt Wilson, of Carbondale, gives directions to other community organizers while recording a promotional video on Sunday in Attucks Park in Carbondale.
Maxwell said it can be difficult to surround themselves with such heavy topics all the time without having an outlet. She noted the group had a mental health professional speak at a recent variety show. Later in the event, music was played over speakers and attendees danced. The balance between more celebratory events and demonstrations, she said, is important.
“You need something that is not always straight focused on the problem. We’re going to have days when it’ll be more peaceful and we’re going to have times when we march,” she said. “But, at the end of the day, we’re not going to stop and we’re trying to keep the focus on this (movement) like they are in big cities — there is hope.”
Elise Grabowska recently moved to Carbondale from Minnesota with her husband, Alex, and now works with the physician assistant program with the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Grabowska, who is white, said being an ally to those who are calling for change is critical in amplifying marginalized communities, especially in Southern Illinois.
“It’s important being a white ally to listen, because it is impossible to understand the world that BIPOC (black, indigenous, people of color) people live in when the world that white people live in is completely different,” she said. “It’s different dangers, different comforts, different privileges, different oppressions, and to think that we, as white people, can completely understand the circumstances people of color ... face everyday is kind of absurd.”

Demonstrators march past The Varsity Center on Friday, Aug. 28 during a demonstration in Carbondale commemorating the anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington.
There are multiple steps in being a good ally, Grabowska said, and she notes one of the most important steps is “making sure your view is intersectional and you're not putting people into boxes that align with different stereotypes,” realizing each person has their own unique experiences that have led them to the lives they live and circumstances they face today.
Emerald Avril, a community activist from Carbondale, said seeing the amount of support for their causes from people of different backgrounds has been one of the things that has stood out to her the most. “I grew up here, so seeing so many allies really makes me really want to keep going because a lot of times when people are lost, they will follow after they see consistency,” she said. “It's encouraging to see people that don’t look like you that want to fight for your right to be a human being.”

Demonstrators march past Arnette’s Barber Shop on Friday, Aug. 28 during a march in Carbondale commemorating the anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington.
Grabowska said it can, at times, be a challenge drumming up support for the social justice movement in rural communities due to smaller populations as well as geopolitical hurdles — Southern Illinois spans over 7,000 square miles. She said, generally, more rural communities may lean on the conservative side, and some may not see the full picture of the social justice movement as compared to their counterparts in more highly populated cities.
“I think in Southern Illinois, there are areas where you can go to engage with different communities and there are other areas that you can go to if you want to completely isolate yourselves from marginalized communities,” Grabowska said. Many Southern Illinois communities’ populations where demonstrations have taken place are predominately white — Carbondale’s population is over 60% white, Benton’s population is about 92% white, Anna’s population is about 90% white and Carterville’s population is almost 90% white.
Mays said it is important to continue fighting for social justice and racial equality in small-town America because of racist ideologies that still may be embedded in some communities. “The majority of America is (made up of) small towns, and I think cities are more progressive in the way they think and have a more diverse population, so they may not have as much racial discrimination as small towns,” she said. “Honestly, the small towns are where the work has to be put in.”
This tenacious group of local activists has been doing just that — putting in the work for their cause. As social media has given traction to various activist events, in large cities and small towns, organizers say they have “the ear of America this time,” while adding the work they are putting in will help form a better future for younger generations.
“If we want to see something better for them, we have to teach them and train them and educate them so they will continue to fight for the dream that we had,” Wilson said. “It’s important to keep this going so that the youth can see and be inspired and one day grow up and continue on just like we did.”
Maxwell agreed and said it was important to acknowledge those who have led the path in years past while continuing to fight for equality and justice and laying the groundwork for those to come. “We must never underestimate the power of planting a seed, she said. “When we’re out there marching — we’re planting the seeds.”

Eyaan Mahone, a Carbondale-based cinematographer, films members of the So. Ill Unity Coalition for a promotional video on Sunday in Attucks Park in Carbondale. The group made the video to promote an upcoming demonstration in Vienna.
Organizers said they are continuing to show Southern Illinois they support marginalized communities and won’t stand for racism. The group announced Friday they will be holding a peaceful demonstration and rally in Vienna at 2 p.m. Sept. 27.
The action comes after a Black student experienced “acts of racism” with “a lack of support from the high school,” organizers said. The goal of the event, they said, is to “raise awareness and show the Black community of Southern Illinois that we will continue to demand justice.”
Southern Illinoisans hold demonstrations in response to George Floyd's death
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Aveon Winfield, of Grand Chain, leads a chant on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, calls out chants on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

March organizer Elijah Burnett, of Carterville, speaks to a demonstrators on Saturday, June 13, 2020, at the end of a demonstration against racism and inequality at John W. Jones Park in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Demonstrators gather at the Marion Town Square on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, speaks to fellow demonstrators on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Nancy Maxwell, of Carbondale, speaks to fellow demonstrators on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Eddie Beavers, of Gallatin County, holds up the arm of Korshawn Johnson, a demonstrator from Carterville, on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality in Marion. Beavers said he attended the march to be in support of the community and to spread love. “Black lives matter and so do all lives,” Beavers said. “I don’t want to see people torn down and that includes anyone here and that includes the police department.”
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Mike Absher, the mayor of the City of Marion, listens in to speakers on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, reads the last words of Black people killed by police on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Jennifer Hankins, of Harrisburg, embraces Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion. Hanks said she attended the march with her three biracial children in hopes of sparking change in the community.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Aveon Winfield, of Grand Chain, leads multiple chants on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Mike Absher, the mayor of the City of Marion, watches protestors on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

A message about racism is displayed on a parked car on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Demonstrators march on Saturday during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Mika Seresbeno, 17, of Marion, marches down South Market Street on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Umarra Winfield, 18, of Grand Chain, rallies against racism and inequality on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Jonathan Logwood, of Carbondale, marches down South Market Street on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

March organizer Elijah Burnett, of Carterville, speaks to a fellow demonstrators on Saturday, June 13, 2020, before a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, speaks to fellow demonstrates on Saturday, June 13, 2020, before a march against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Treesa Fischl, a demonstration organizer from Herrin, leads rallies against racism and inequality on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a march in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Demonstrators march up South Market Street on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

State and local law enforcement escort demonstrators as they march up South Market Street on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, and Treesa Fischl, of Herrin, rally against racism and inequality on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Kirstey Minor, right, of Benton, holds up a sign seeking justice for Breonna Taylor, a Black woman who was shot eight times when officers entered her apartment in Louisville, on Saturday, June 13, 2020, during a demonstration against racism and inequality in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Demonstrators take a moment of silence while Korshawn Johnson, of Carterville, raises his fist Saturday during a demonstration for equality and peace in Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

Karen Schauwecker, of Carbondale, listens in to speakers Saturday during a demonstration at the town square Marion.
‘Sharing the love’: Demonstrators in Marion march for equality, peace

March organizer Elijah Burnett, of Carterville, speaks to a fellow demonstrator on Saturday before a demonstration to promote equality and peace in Marion. For more coverage on Saturday's demonstration in Marion, go to TheSouthern.com.
Carbondale educators

Teachers line Illinois Avenue in Carbondale Friday morning to advocate for racial justice.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Lauren Jones, of Marion, holds her 9-month-old son Asher, on Friday during a drive-thru demonstration in Carbondale against the death of George Floyd.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

A “coexist” flag is draped on the vehicle of Tara Bell, the board chair for the Rainbow Cafe from Johnston City, on Friday during a drive-thru demonstration in Carbondale against the death of George Floyd.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Demonstration organizer Nancy Maxwell, talks to roughly 100 community members on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Umarra Winfield, an 18-year-old demonstrator from Grand Chain, recites her poem “P.S.” on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Ginger Rye, a member of Women for Change Carbondale, speaks to the crowds about injustices on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Tavae Lewis, of Carbondale, livestreams a speech by Ginger Rye, a member of Women for Change Carbondale, on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Matt Wilson, of Carbondale, dances with fellow demonstrators on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Dr. Pamela Smoot, of Carbondale, dances with fellow demonstrators on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the Eurma C. Hayes Community Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Cars file down South Washington Street on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the City of Carbondale Public Safety Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Cars file down South Washington Street on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the City of Carbondale Public Safety Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Cars file down South Washington Street on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the City of Carbondale Public Safety Center in Carbondale.
Drive-thru protest in Carbondale for George Floyd

Sharra Brown, of Carbondale, raises a fist outside her window as cars file down South Washington Street on Friday, June 12, 2020, during a drive-thru demonstration against the death of George Floyd outside of the City of Carbondale Public Safety Center in Carbondale.
Carbondale educators

Unity Point teacher Kristen Grimmer was among several dozen educators who joined Friday morning's demonstration on Illinois Avenue in Carbondale.
Carbondale educators

Educators held a rally Friday morning in Carbondale in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Justice for Black Lives rally in Sparta

Demonstrators march down Market Street in Sparta Saturday. Nearly 100 protesters took to the streets of Sparta for the second day in a row to demand an end to police brutality in the United States, especially against black men and women.
Justice for Black Lives rally in Sparta

A driver waits for marchers to pass Saturday during Sparta’s Justice for Black Lives protest.
Justice for Black Lives rally in Sparta

Johnnie Williams addresses the crowd Saturday during Sparta’s Justice for Black Lives protest.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

Kiersten Owens, of Benton, leads demonstrators in a chant Saturday.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

The family of Bryan and Christen Drew displayed messages of unity in front of his law office on the Benton Square during Saturday's demonstration for racial equality.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

Tyler Chance (right) of West Frankfort holds a sign that calls for an end to racism in Southern Illinois and the nation at Saturday's demonstration in Benton.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

About 60 people gathered on the Benton Square on Saturday to demonstrate for racial equality.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

Demonstrators on the Benton square on Saturday pay tribute to George Floyd.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

A man flips off protesters as he drives by Saturday's demonstration for racial justice in Benton.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

A man critical of demonstrators in Benton flips them off as he walks by shouting "All lives matter."
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

About 60 people joined a demonstration on the Benton square on Saturday holding various signs calling for racial justice.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

Demonstrators on the Benton square on Saturday hold up signs calling for racial justice.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

About 60 people gathered for a demonstration in Benton on Saturday.
Black Lives Matter demonstration in Benton

Korshawn Johnson, of Williamson County, leads demonstrators in a call-and-response chant in Benton during Saturday's Black Lives Matter rally in front of the historical Franklin County Courthouse.
More than 200 attend Black Lives Matter rally in Du Quoin

Protesters walk down Washington Street (U.S. 51) in Du Quoin Saturday evening to say "black lives matter."
More than 200 attend Black Lives Matter rally in Du Quoin

Shianne Adams shares a bottle of water with her 4-year-old son, Raeden Hanson, during a protest Saturday in Du Quoin.
More than 200 attend Black Lives Matter rally in Du Quoin

Protesters walk down Washington Street (U.S. 51) in Du Quoin Saturday evening to say "black lives matter."
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Elise Grabowska, of Carbondale, listens to speakers while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, outsides of the civic center in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Travis Washington, of Carbondale, speaks about holding government accountable and the “Hand’s Up Act” while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, outsides of the civic center in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Mollie Osinga, far left, prays with her mother Jodie Salazar and father Antonio Salazar III, all of Carterville, Ill., while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Protesters march in Herrin

Protesters march from Herrin Memorial Park on Friday evening in response to the death of George Floyd while in police custody last week in Minneapolis.
Watch Now: Protesters march in Herrin
Protesters march in Herrin

Protesters kneel at the intersection of Herrin Street and Park Avenue during a rally on Friday evening in Herrin in response to the death of George Floyd on Memorial Day in Minneapolis.
Protesters march in Herrin

Tyler Green shouts with other protesters during a march from Herrin Memorial Park down Herrin Street on Friday evening in response to the death of George Floyd in police custody last week in Minneapolis.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators in Carbondale take a knee last week while rallying against the death of George Floyd.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Nicholas Brown, of Du Quoin, holds his brother Apollo Gaston, 2, on his shoulders while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators in Carbondale rally last week against the death of George Floyd.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Courtlin Jabrae filmed his most recent music video during the Justice for George Floyd rally and march this past Friday in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Kierra Greer, of Chicago, speaks last week to demonstrators rallying outside of the police department in Carbondale against the death of George Floyd.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Kierra Greer, of Chicago, speaks to demonstrators rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, outside of the police department in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Madyson Swope, 15, of Carbondale, Ill., rallies against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale. “I want to show that I am black and I am proud,” Swope said.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Jay Campbell, 17, of Carbondale, Ill., talks about being stereotyped while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale. “I’m tired of my people being just a number – just a statistic. We’re better than that,” Campbell said. “We’re better than those labels and I want my people to know that.”
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Michael Coleman, a march organizer from Waukegan, calls out while rallying against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Demonstrators rally against the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday, June 5, 2020, in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Cyril Hopes, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, holds up a charcoal drawing of George Floyd, a Minnesota man who died while in Minneapolis Police custody, on Friday in Carbondale.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Michael Coleman, the march organizer from Waukegan, calls out “say his name” Friday in Carbondale while rallying against the death of George Floyd.
Justice for George Floyd Protest

Charlie Hope Dorsey, of Carbondale, chants “hands up don’t shoot” while rallying Friday in Carbondale against the death of George Floyd.
Carbondale march

Kierra Greer addresses a crowd of demonstrators gathered Friday outside of Carbondale’s police department.
Carbondale march

Musician Courtlin Jabrae sings an original song during a march against police brutality Friday in Carbondale.
Carbondale march

Treyonne Rawls marches with fellow demonstrators Friday in Carbondale.
Carbondale march

Protestors march past graffiti Friday in Carbondale.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Jenna Gomez (left), of Cobden, and Jessica Moore, of Ullin, lead protesters down Davie Street in Anna during a rally on June 4 to protest the death of George Floyd, police brutality and racism.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Protesters march down Davie Street in Anna on Thursday as part of a rally in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Law enforcement officers keep an eye on protesters during a rally in Anna on Thursday in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Jenna Gomez, 18, of Cobden, leads chants Thursday in Anna during a rally protesting police brutality.
Anna protest: 'I'm not black but I mourn with you.'
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Some residents observe protesters from across Main Street in Anna on Thursday evening.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Residents along Davie Street look on as protesters march during a rally in response to the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis last week.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Onlookers Thursday in Anna during a protest against police brutality held in response to the death of George Floyd and other people of color who have died at the hands of police.
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Police confront a man antagonizing protestors in Anna Thursday.
Nearly 200 protest in Anna
In Anna, nearly 200 demonstrate against police brutality

Protesters kneel in honor of George Floyd, who died in police custody on Memorial Day in Minneapolis, during a rally on Thursday in Anna.
Carterville march

More than 100 protesters marched from Cannon Park to downtown Carterville on Wednesday evening in response to the death of George Floyd in police custody last week in Minneapolis.
Carterville march

Carterville Police officers kneel along with protesters as Chaise Miller, an auxiliary officer, leads the group in prayer on Wednesday evening in Carterville. More than 100 people turned out to march in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis on Memorial Day.
Carterville march

Korshawn Johnson (left), organizer of the march, speaks to protesters after they marched from Cannon Park to downtown Carterville on Wednesday evening in response to the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis last week.
Watch now: Protesters march in Carterville
Black Lives Matter Peaceful Protest in Carbondale

Dylan Lovel, Alexandria Stevens, Jesica Morrissey and Cassie Sarcinelli, all of Carbondale, gather in front of Sam’s Cafe to protest the death of George Floyd on Wednesday in Carbondale.
Black Lives Matter Peaceful Protest in Carbondale

Halee Sheraden and Dylan Lovel, both of Carbondale, gather in front of Sam’s Cafe to protest the death of George Floyd on Wednesday in Carbondale.
Black Lives Matter Peaceful Protest in Carbondale

A nearby resident screams at demonstrators Wednesday from his porch in Carbondale as demonstrators gather to protest the death of George Floyd, an African American man who died in police custody in Minnesota.
Black Lives Matter Peaceful Protest in Carbondale

A demonstrator shields his face from the sun while gathering in front of Sam’s Cafe in Carbondale to protest the death of George Floyd, an African American man who died in police custody in Minnesota.
Black Lives Matter Peaceful Protest in Carbondale

Demonstrators gather in front of Sam’s Cafe in Carbondale on Wednesday to protest the death of George Floyd, an African American man who died in police custody in Minnesota.
Daily protest

Andrea Gant displays signs to passing traffic along Main Street in downtown Carbondale on Tuesday in response to the death of George Floyd last week in Minneapolis. Gant plans on protesting daily and she said anyone is welcome to join her.
Demonstration in Marion

Protesters gather in Town Square Plaza on Tuesday evening in Marion in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis one week ago.
Demonstration in Marion

About 80 protesters took part in a relatively peaceful rally at Town Square Plaza in Marion on Monday evening in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis one week ago while in police custody. A minor skirmish broke out between a protester and motorcyclist observing the rally.
Demonstration in Marion

Marion Mayor Mike Absher observes protesters at Town Square Plaza on Monday evening as they rally in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis a week ago.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators march while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Natasha Miller, left, embraces her mother, Moana Miller, both of Cambria, as they mourn George Floyd's death during a vigil on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Chastity Mays, of Carbondale, speaks to community members on June 1, 2020, at a candlelight vigil in Carbondale to mourn the death of George Floyd.
Watch Now: Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Community members gather to mourn the death of George Floyd during a vigil on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators march while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators march while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators tape signs on the windows of the Carbondale Police Department while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators congregate outside of the Carbondale Police Department while mourning the death of George Floyd on during a demonstration Sunday in Carbondale.
Watch Now: Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators lie on the ground outside of SI Pawn while marching and mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators march while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Demonstrators march while mourning the death of George Floyd during a demonstration on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Amanda Haaland, of Schaumburg, mourns George Floyd's death during a vigil on Sunday in Carbondale.
Vigil in Carbondale mourns George Floyd's death, demonstrators call for change

Marquis Booker, of Carbondale, mourns George Floyd's death during a vigil Sunday in Carbondale.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Nicholas Tate of Du Quoin started out with a simple goal with his one-man protest Saturday: 100 honks in support of black lives.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Nicholas Tate and his dad, Ron Tate, at Saturday's protest in Du Quoin.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Tenielle Worthington and her father, Lamonte Mitchell, join a protest Saturday in Du Quoin to call attention to the killing of black people by law enforcement.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Protesters Ella Brock (top left), Shian Adams (bottom left), Amanda Mitchell (top right), Maci Collins (bottom right) join a protest Saturday in Du Quoin.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Cass Vandemere holds a Black Lives Matter sign made by Nicholas Tate at Saturday's protest in Du Quoin.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

What started as a very small protest of two people grew to about 20 by late Saturday afternoon.
1 man with a 'Black Lives Matter' sign spurs 20-person demonstration in Du Quoin Saturday

Protesters in Du Quoin on Saturday join people from across the nation in calling for justice and equality for African Americans.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

A woman livestreams a speech by Meleah Mays during a candlelight vigil Sunday in Turley Park for George Floyd, an African American man who died in police custody in Minneapolis on Memorial Day.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Meleah Mays, of Carbondale, reads a poem about police brutality on Sunday, May 31, 2020, during a candlelight vigil in Turley Park for George Floyd, an African American man who died in police custody in Minneapolis on Memorial Day.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Carbondale community members mourn the death of George Floyd during a candlelight vigil Sunday at Lenus Turley Park in Carbondale.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Carbondale community members mourn the death of George Floyd during a candlelight vigil Sunday at Lenus Turley Park in Carbondale.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Carbondale community members mourn the death of George Floyd during a candlelight vigil at Lenus Turley Park on Sunday in Carbondale.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Carbondale community members mourn the death of George Floyd during a candlelight vigil Sunday at Lenus Turley Park in Carbondale.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Carbondale community members mourn the death of George Floyd during a candlelight vigil Sunday at Lenus Turley Park in Carbondale.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching through Lenus Turley Park Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching down West Main Street Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching down West Main Street Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching down West Main Street Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

People inside of a stopped car raise their fists in solidarity with demonstrators as they mourn the death of George Floyd during a march Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Watch Now: Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd during a demonstration on Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd during a march on Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died on Memorial Day in police custody after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching up Illinois Avenue Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died in police custody on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Demonstrators mourn the death of George Floyd while marching up Illinois Avenue Sunday in Carbondale. Floyd was an African American man who died on Memorial Day in police custody after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee into his neck for several minutes while he was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
Demonstrators in Carbondale mourn George Floyd's death; hold vigil, march

Akiyah Moose, of Bush, Illinois, kneels with a candle on Sunday in Turley Park while mourning the death of George Floyd, an African American man died in police custody on Memorial in Minneapolis.
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