KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Despite the first night of a curfew in Kalamazoo, a small crowd of demonstrators still came out to the downtown area.
The National Guard and Michigan State Police blocked off each intersection along West Michigan Avenue in downtown Kalamazoo hours before the 7 p.m. curfew on Tuesday, and yet protesters still gathered at the corner of Michigan and South Westnedge Avenues, leading chants and holding signs as drivers honked their horns.
Then about 30 minutes before the curfew, the group moved closer to authorities and peacefully protested at the corner of Michigan and Park Street. At one point, all of them knelt down chanting, “Hands up. Don’t shoot.”
Less than 10 minutes before the curfew, demonstrators formed a line in front of the National Guard and got closer to officers. At this time, the Assistant Police Chief of the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Vernon Coakley got on one knee and spoke with the demonstrators. He tried to lead the group out and said anyone who stuck around would be teargassed.
KDPS’ Chief Karianne Thomas got on the loud speaker and told protesters to disperse as the curfew inched closer.
Protesters were warned that tear gas would be used multiple times. About 40 minutes after the 7 p.m. curfew, authorities deployed it. At least two people were arrested. Some demonstrators dispersed while others moved back until most people cleared out around 8 p.m.
Businesses up and down Michigan Avenue and along the Kalamazoo Mall were completely boarded up.
The curfew is in effect from 7 p.m. until 5 a.m. for seven days, but it could be shortened or lengthened if needed.
During the curfew, people are not allowed to walk, run, stand or use any mode of transportation on city streets, alleys, roads, highways and public properties.
Exceptions are for individuals travelling directly to and from their place of employment, or seeking emergency medical care. Also exempt are all law enforcement, fire, medical personnel, or officials designated by duty or office with reference to said emergency, and credentialed members of the news media.
(Copy written by Jeana Gondek).
