Near the beginning of a 9 mile march through the streets of LA. Shutting down traffic routes as a procession of vehicles with hand made signs accompanied protestors.

Seeing national guard forces walking around with full gear and assault riffle loadouts was off-putting to say the least.

I am incredibly grateful I was lucky enough to capture this image. Every time I see it I’m filled with emotion.

It was truly amazing to see volunteers handing out snacks and refreshments to protesters.

At a point the protest organizers were approached by two sheriffs. When I questioned this young man about their purpose, he told me they were offering help. He responded politely by asking them to remove their badges and join the protest. They declined and wondered off.

This young man was helping to lead the peaceful protest and maintain order and civility amongst the people. During a short break for rest and hydration he shared with us that he had spent the past three nights locked up for breaking curfew to continue protesting. The following mornings he was released and returned to the streets of LA spreading the message that BLACK LIVES MATTER.

We were met with opposition at the Huntington Beach protest. Instead of reacting to the hateful chatter being shouted from the other side of the police line, music was played and dancing soon followed.

Police having to form a physical wall, as anti BLM protestors show up to try and derail the movement.

“If they start shooting, stand behind me”

Our fists rose together, we chanted in unison, we want equality.

“Silence is Betrayal”

Standing together against oppression and brutality.