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Black Lives Matter vigil in Inverness cancelled due to coronavirus fears


By Louise Glen

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A Black Lives Matter vigil set for Bught Park has been cancelled by the organisers due to coronavirus fears.

Organiser Ben Anderson said he took the decision to cancel the event after more than 500 people said they intended to go along this Saturday.

He was concerned it would be difficult for everyone to follow Scottish Government guidelines relating to the coronavirus pandemic.

He told the Inverness Courier: "I no longer feel confident that social distancing can be maintained. We cannot afford a second Covid-19 wave."

The event was prompted by the death of African-American George Floyd in police custody in the United States last week. It has led to thousands of people worldwide expressing concerns about racism.

On social media, Mr Anderson said: "Despite early police support and approval, the event has now grown to a size where social distancing will be impossible to maintain and enforce.

"It is a very hard decision, however the protest has been cancelled.

"This is in no way lying down. We must still stand up for what is right, however to do so in the manner of a protest would be too much of a risk given the current Covid-19 situation.

"Over 500 people have now replied 'going/interested' with over 130 people sharing the event.
"Although we cannot stand together on Saturday, we have sent a virtual message throughout Inverness and beyond."

Mr Anderson continued: "Please continue to fight for what you believe in ans what is right, and continue to be actively anti-racist."

Related article: Vigil planned in Inverness to highlight racism

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