CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW)-  What started as a small group of peaceful demonstrators Saturday afternoon, grew to a large crowd by late evening on Wilma Rudolph Boulevard.

Like many demonstrations across the nation, the protest was in response to the death of  George Floyd,

City leaders including Mayor Joe Pitts, his wife Cynthia Pitts, Valerie Guzman, councilwoman, and Richard Garrett, councilman, came out to speak to citizens. Law enforcement attended as well.

“I’m here just to listen,” Pitts said.

While the leaders came out to have a conversation, some in attendance commented that it was hard to have a conversation with so many people talking and interrupting.

A prayer, a moment of silence, were all suggested to keep the event positive at approximately 10:45 p.m.

“No Justice, No Peace,” and “Black Lives Matters” were the chants that rang out. Many raised their fists in the air. One person held up burning sage.

The diverse crowd, with several teenagers and younger people in attendance, continued to chant. Some had conversations with the leaders and others spoke to each other.

Mayor Joe Pitts and his wife, Cynthia Pitts came out to listen to the conversation.

At about 10:30, Valeria Guzman, Clarksville councilwoman, spoke to the crowd.

“…Let’s talk about how can we change,” Guzman said. “The reality is in Clarksville we haven’t had police kill anyone….”

Many began to shout “Justice for Jalen,” interrupting her. They were referring to a high profile local case where several bondsmen were acquitted for the shooting death of Jalen Johnson.

“The whole legislation was part of that wrong, we can’t say Clarksville  did it,” said Valeria Guzman. She added that a councilman is still working toward a bill addressing the issue.

Guzman urged people to get involved in the local government.

Those in the crowd began to say a change needs to happen in the world, not just Clarksville.

“No Justice, No Peace,” continued to be chanted.

Several began to have conversations with Guzman and Pitts.

“We have to listen,” said Treva Gordon. “…People are hurting. I thank you for your presence. That’s how we reach the people. We have to hear what they have to say, it’s their truth.”

Around 11:30 it began to quiet down.

The one on one conversations with the mayor continued.