Protests in Queens

[Matt]

Did anyone take part in or witness Saturday's peaceful protest which began at Diversity Plaza? It looks like there was a great turnout based on the photos here: https://qns.com/story/2020/05/30/developing-protesters-take-to-the-streets-of-jackson-heights-woodside/

I wasn't aware this was taking place, but I came across a heavy police presence following the protest when I went to Angel to pick up dinner.

There were other protests throughout Queens over the weekend:
https://patch.com/new-york/queens/queens-protesters-demand-justice-george-floyd
The video included shows the police kneeling in unity with the protesters which is really moving.

Does anyone know if more are scheduled in our area or elsewhere in Queens soon?

[SimoneB]

Hi Matt,

You can usually find info about Queens protests on the FB group Hearts Across Queens - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1152295071506879/

On IG, follow @justiceforgeorgenyc for info on protests throughout the city.

Kim

[NYer1008]

According to that Instagram, there is a protest today (June 3) at Travers Park, 2PM

[sl]

At least there’s no report of looting unlike the Brooklyn, Manhanhattan, and Bronx.

[Matt]

Thanks, Kim and NYer1008. I don't have Facebook or Instagram accounts, but I can at least view the most recent posts on Instagram. Both have moved to a FOMO model to lure people into joining, but I feel the cost of an account is too high (I realize an account is "free").

[itsit]

 Am not sure how the Travers Park event to mourn George Floyd's death was publicized, but heard it went well. Has anyone heard of an online event for those who can't attend in person events at this time?

[Yankswun98]

The question we need to ask ourselves is, if large gatherings are now allowed why can't our small business be opened? 

Politicians on both sides need to be asked this question.

[dssjh]

The question we need to ask ourselves is, if large gatherings are now allowed why can't our small business be opened? 

Politicians on both sides need to be asked this question.

they're opening in four days, according to state officials.

[Matt]

The question we need to ask ourselves is, if large gatherings are now allowed why can't our small business be opened? 

Politicians on both sides need to be asked this question.

The First Amendment allows the protests to take place. Large permitted events such as the LGBTQ Pride Parade have been canceled.

In addition to essential services currently in operation the following businesses are scheduled to open in the first phase of NYC's reopening:

Construction
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
Retail - (Limited to curbside or in-store pickup or drop off)
Manufacturing
Wholesale Trade

https://forward.ny.gov/phase-one-industries

This likely will include some of our small businesses, but definitely not all. It looks like phase one is on schedule for 6/8 as dssjh mentioned.

[AndyJH]

There is now a Queens-specific Instagram profile for protests and marches: @justiceforgeorgequeens

https://www.instagram.com/justiceforgeorgequeens/

[voelteer]

Many thanks for this great, informative thread!

Where can we find information on (participating in) the silent vigil/meditation circle taking place on 34th Ave near the Greenmarket the past two weekends (or so)? Are there other days and/or locations?

[NYer1008]

March on June 9 with local officials.

[mpw]

The Instagram account @justiceforgeorgenyc has daily updates on protests around the city. (It seems to be updated much more frequently than the @justiceforgeorgequeens account for some reason.)

There’s one scheduled for 1pm today at 74th and Roosevelt.

[toddg]

Defund the Police protests today outside Dromm's building in Jackson Heights...
https://twitter.com/mckenziewark/status/1273661054241947657

[Yankswun98]

The local government should be defunded as all government agencies need to cut salaries to make up for the loss of revenue due to Covid-19.