
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.
Editor's note: This story discusses offensive racist slurs.
BENTON — In 1995, the year after Gage Peach was born, his hometown of Benton was the site of a KKK rally on the square in front of the historical Franklin County Courthouse. Peach said it’s shocking that happened in his lifetime.
On Saturday, Peach, now of West Frankfort, along with Kiersten Owens, of Benton, both of whom are white, organized a demonstration that drew about 60 people to that same location to call for justice and equality for black Americans. For nearly three hours, they held signs, chanted and paid respect to George Floyd, whose death in police custody in Minneapolis on Memorial Day has sparked demonstrations across the nation in cities big and small.
With the courthouse slated to be demolished and replaced, Peach said he felt that it was important “that we leave it with a good mark on history, that we’re all for equality. We don’t want Franklin County to be known for its racism. This is more about bringing the community together more than anything else.”
Joining people across the nation, hundreds have gathered across Southern Illinois in recent days to protest the death of Floyd, a black man who died after a white officer kneeled on his neck for nearly nine minutes.
Not unexpectedly, the largest regional demonstrations have taken place in Carbondale, which is relatively diverse — about 40% of its population is people of color. Carbondale is no stranger to hosting large marches and protests, dating back to the civil rights and Vietnam War era. And it has hosted several Black Lives Matters marches and rallies over the past few years.
What seems to distinguish this moment’s push for racial justice in Southern Illinois is the number of gatherings that are taking place beyond the borders of the liberal-leaning university town. Familiar rally chants of “I can’t breathe,” “no justice, no peace” and “black lives matter” have also been ringing out in small, conservative Southern Illinois towns like Benton and Anna, which are overwhelmingly white by historical design, and have remained stubbornly racially homogeneous for generations.
“I came to Carbondale as an SIU student in 1972,” said Carl Flowers, who is African American and a retired Southern Illinois University professor and administrator. “To see that there was a rally for the Black Lives Matter in Anna — that is one that I would have never suspected would ever, ever occur.” Anna’s rally, organized by young adults in Union County, drew about 200 people on Thursday.

Protesters kneel in honor of George Floyd, who died in police custody on Memorial Day in Minneapolis, during a rally on Thursday in Anna.
In recent days, people have also gathered in Marion, Herrin, Carterville, Sparta, Murphysboro, Du Quoin and Mounds. Mounds is a predominately African American community in Pulaski County, but the other towns are majority white.
Some of these communities — Benton, Herrin, Carterville, Anna — were “sundown towns” where, by official policy, black people were not allowed after dark into at least the 1960s in some cases, according to research by James W. Loewen, author of the book “Sundown Towns: A Hidden Dimension of American Racism.”
Though named for the town’s founder, a century or so ago, Anna became ANNA — an unofficial acronym for Ain’t No N------ Allowed, a clear message to African Americans that they weren’t welcome. In 1925, a funeral held for a Williamson County KKK leader and federal prohibition agent drew 15,000 people to Herrin, most dressed in full Klan regalia. For a period of time during this era, Carterville excluded black people from its city limits entirely — day or night. The KKK had a significant presence in Benton into at least the 1950s, according to Loewen’s research.
“To see some of those communities also coming together is revealing that times are a-changin’,” Flowers said. “People are realizing that all lives do matter — absolutely — but in this case, a black life should be included in all of those lives.”
The organizers of the events have been local residents who said they wanted to make a difference in their small towns. Nicholas Tate, an African American from Du Quoin, said it doesn’t require a big gathering to send a message of unity. He organized a one-man rally a week ago after work — and by the end of the day, about 20 others had spontaneously joined him. A second demonstration in Du Quoin took place Saturday evening at Keyes Park.
Korshawn Johnson, an African American who grew up in Williamson County, organized protests this week in Carterville and Herrin, because he said he wanted to bring the movement to places where rallies — and discussions about race relations — are less common. He also joined in the demonstration in Benton Saturday. “Carterville gave me hope. Herrin gave me another level of hope. But seeing Benton and being able to come to join them, it gave me all the hope that I honestly need,” he said.

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.
William Perkins, a 74-year-old African American of Colp, said black people of his generation grew up being warned not to travel to places like Anna and Benton for their own safety.
For many decades, Perkins said the small village of Colp was among the few places where it was safe for blacks to live in Williamson County.
Perkins said the gatherings in the Williamson County towns of Marion, Carterville and Herrin last week were uplifting. “It’s amazing to me that there’s as many whites out at these rallies in these various towns,” he said. “That’s just really got me. Our story is being told, in more ways than just as it relates to police.”
The local demonstrations mirror those taking place in large cities across America protesting the death of Floyd. The officer who was filmed unwavering in lifting his knee from Floyd’s neck as he gasped for air and cried out for his mom has been charged with second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter; three other officers also on the scene have been charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder and aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter.
Perkins said that some white people don’t seem to understand what the demonstrations are about — he’s heard them say justice has already been served by the arrests, and therefore there’s nothing to protest. But the injustices that African Americans have endured for centuries in this country have not been rectified. Racism, Perkins said, has not gone away.
Black Americans are still underrepresented in politics and workplaces. The COVID-19 pandemic that has disproportionately resulted in the deaths of African Americans has highlighted long-standing health disparities. Inequities in education funding have left many majority black schools, where large numbers of students live in poverty, with few resources, while majority white suburban districts have flourished. In majority-black cities and neighborhoods across America, families often live with failing infrastructure and environmental hazards.
High-profile events like what happened to Floyd — caught on film — serve as a reminder of how far the country still has to go to create a society that is just and inclusive for people of color, Perkins said. The rallies bring more awareness to the concerns of black Americans. But making change requires a lot of hard work by people of all races once the excitement of the moment fades away.
Pepper Holder, a 71-year-old African American of Carbondale, said black Southern Illinoisans have been fighting for many years to help ensure younger people of color have equitable access to job opportunities, especially in government and taxpayer-funded contract jobs. Too many times, those efforts have fallen short because black families lack the political capital held by many of Southern Illinois’ white families, who haven’t been eager to share opportunities, especially as economies have tightened.
“I am really appreciative and happy that other small towns are realizing we have a problem and that it’s not just Carbondale,” Holder said. “But what do we do to fix this problem and how do we heal? And healing would begin by giving clear history and direction to the problem. It’s not going to stop until we get to the root of the problem.”
While thousands of people have protested across the country without incident, in some major cities, peaceful demonstrations have given way to violence, destruction and clashes between police and protesters. Given that, some people in Southern Illinois towns unaccustomed to demonstrations acknowledged they were nervous about what might happen.
In Anna, about 15 or so people stood across the street from demonstrators Thursday evening. One public official told The Southern they were there unofficially to back up law enforcement if things got out of hand. Across Anna, people stood in front of their businesses or outside their homes, watching as the protests made their way through town.
In Carterville, Alderman Tom Harness, who is white, said he didn’t know what to expect when he heard on social media about plans to have a demonstration in his small community — something that is virtually unheard of in modern times.
“I was very nervous at first because, like most people, all I focused on was some of the negative impact that I was seeing in these communities,” he said. “As an citizen, and as an alderman, I wanted to make sure our people were safe, I wanted to make sure our businesses weren’t going to get destroyed.”
Despite his “mixed emotions,” Harness said he decided to attend. It was the first racial justice rally he has ever taken part in, and he walked away feeling empowered and like he better understood the events unfolding nationally. He said he plans to stay in touch with some of the people he met to try to strategize ways to get more people of color involved in municipal affairs.
“I was outside my comfort zone but I learned a lot, and I think the only way that we’re going to grow is if we get outside that comfort zone,” Harness said.

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.
In Benton, about a dozen or so white men stood across the courthouse from the demonstrators in front of a row of motorcycles. They are members of two motorcycle clubs — the Storm Riders and the Outlaws. Some of the demonstrators began to express concern about why they were there — and then one member of the group came over to let them know that their purpose was to keep everyone safe.
“We’re here to make sure the peace is kept,” said a man who goes by Hardway, of West Frankfort. Another guy, who goes by Jaybo, of Marion, also chimed in: “We mainly want to stop them, too, from tearing up the town like we’ve had in other places,” he said. “We’ve lived here for years and we’re just here to protect our own and keep the peace and serve the community.” They declined to provide their real names — opting instead to give their “road names.”
Benton’s protest ended without incident, but was filled with tense moments. As a stream of cars made their way around the square, some people honked. A few stuck their arms out of their windows — some with their hands in fists, a black power fist salute acknowledging solidarity, and others with their middle fingers raised high. As the demonstrators yelled “Black lives matter,” one guy walking down the street yelled back, “White lives matter, too, dumba--.” As they yelled, “I can’t breathe” — the words Floyd uttered on tape while pinned to the ground — the man yelled back, “If I can hear you, you can breathe.” “This ain’t got nothing to do with black and white,” he said as he walked off.
Two other guys on motorcycles — who were not part of the group on guard — rolled through blaring a racist David Allen Coe song about his disgust toward a white woman who sleeps with a black man. It includes the “n-word” and the two men sang that verse — loudly. Another guy driving by rolled down his window and told the group that they needed to look up what Black Lives Matter stands for — “it’s a terrorist organization,” he said. The Southern asked for his name and he declined, saying the paper is “very liberal,” “anti-American” and “anti-white.”
While the event was overwhelmingly positive, Tyler Chance, of West Frankfort, said that the negative attitudes expressed by some passersby are more pervasive in Franklin County to this day than they should be. That’s why he wanted to join in the rally.
Chance, 28, who is white, said there were no students of color in his high school graduating class. But now, he teaches high school English in a predominantly black school in St. Louis. The experience, he said, has opened his eyes to the injustices that black Americans face daily — yet too many white people in Franklin County remain silent about it, he said. “Growing up in Franklin County, I saw racism all around. I see it today.” Speaking up in a public way takes courage, he said, especially when it is people within one’s own family who are expressing racist views. He held a sign that said, “No more racist Southern Illinois. No more racist USA.”
Owens, who helped organize Saturday’s Benton event, said change will only come for a town with a troubled past like this one when white people make it clear that they won’t tolerate racism. “In a predominantly white community, your voice matters,” she said to the crowd. “You have to stand up for the black community. Use your voice.”
Photo & Video | 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.