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Black Lives Matter campaigners march through Canterbury and Thanet

By: Brad Harper bharper@thekmgroup.co.uk

Published: 13:31, 13 June 2020

Updated: 09:45, 14 June 2020

Thousands of protesters supporting the Black Lives Matter movement marched across Kent this afternoon (June 13).

They are took place in Canterbury and Thanet to raise awareness of racial discrimination.

Protesters in Canterbury today. Picture: Robert Rotifer

The event in Canterbury started at midday today and organisers said social distancing was essential.

Those attending were asked to wear masks, stay two metres apart and to march in groups of six.

Protesters in Broadstairs today
Protesters in Thanet today. Picture: People Dem Collective
Protesters in Thanet today. Picture: People Dem Collective
Protesters in Thanet today. Picture: People Dem Collective
Banner displayed at the Newgate Gap in Margate

It began at Westgate Gardens, moving through the town to Canterbury Cathedral, then Dane John Gardens and finally to Canterbury Police Station.

The Bishop of Dover was in attendance to show support to the cause.

Black Lives Matter protestors in Canterbury Picture: Toby Killeen

Following a march going from Cliftonville to Margate last weekend, People Dem Collective organised another one today which kicked-off at midday.

A plaque has been covered by Thanet District Council
Protesters in Broadstairs today
Protesters in Broadstairs today

Campaigners walked from Ramsgate Bandstand to Broadstairs Bandstand.

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People were told to wear face masks and to respect social distancing guidelines.

Black Lives Matter protestors in Canterbury Picture: Toby Killeen

There was a "no alcohol and drugs" policy - and people were advised to "remain calm, collected and respectful of others".

Thanet District Council has also covered up the controversial Uncle Mack plaque - erected to remember a troupe which performed in black face paint as minstrels in venues across Broadstairs between 1895 and 1948.

When they arrived in Broadstairs, they will knelt for exactly eight minutes 46 seconds in silence.

Protestors in Canterbury today. Picture: Twitter / KENT ANTI RACISM NET
Protestors in Canterbury today. Picture: Twitter / KENT ANTI RACISM NET
The Bishop of Dover in Canterbury today. Picture: Twitter / KENT ANTI RACISM NET
Protestors in Canterbury today. Picture: Twitter / KENT ANTI RACISM NET

A spokesperson for People Dem Collective said: "Today was the definition of unity. The amount of people from here and surrounding areas, young and old and people of every colour together as one.

"It was beautiful to witness, be part of and organise.

"The movement will continue and we, the people dem will create change."

Read more: All the latest news from Canterbury

Read more: All the latest news from Thanet

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