'Avon In Good Hands' Police Say After Nonviolent Protest

AVON, OH — On Saturday, a crowd of 500 people, made up of Avon students, residents, Mayor Bryan Jensen and others, took part in a nonviolent protest seeking justice for George Floyd and a more equitable society.

"We see what happened on Saturday as more of a rally than a protest," the Avon police department said in an open letter to the community. "It was a diverse group of individuals coming together to promote equality."

The protest organizers — part of a group called "The Change We Seek" — worked with Avon police and fire departments to organize the event. Avon Lake police also took part in Saturday's protest, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.

Jensen and Avon Lake Mayor Greg Zilka joined the protest, as residents, most wearing face coverings, carried signs demanding equality and justice for Floyd's death.

"In the midst of tragedy, I can always count on the Avon community to come together as a group, not just as individuals, to make a positive impact and better all lives," Jensen said in a statement after the event.

Avon police said Saturday's event revealed that Avon would be in good hands for generations to come.