FRANKLIN COUNTY — According to multiple published reports and the Winchester Police Department, individuals plan a protest for Saturday beginning at the former Fred’s Store in Decherd and tentatively ending at the old Franklin County High School Building.

According to organizers, the I Can’t Breathe March will be a peaceful protest in response to the death of George Floyd while in police custody. A Decherd man submitted the application to block city roads to accommodate the protesters but says he is not the event’s organizer.

“I took the proper measures to ensure the safety of the people participating and the businesses and other citizens that will be out and about during the event,” he said.

The Lynchburg Times confirmed that the event is the idea of Decherd woman named Brandi Evans.

Groups do not need public permits to peacefully assemble. That right is enshrined in the First Amendment to the Constitution. However, they do need a permit to walk on public streets. The City of Winchester, represented by Police Chief Richard Lewis, approved the request. Since then, the Winchester Police Department has issued a statement in support of the protesters.

“The Winchester Police Department supports the protest and will do everything in our power to make it successful,” they stated. “Neither the petitioners, nor the Winchester Police Department want any violence or destruction. We will have measures in place in case any out-of-town actors, or anyone for that matter, wishes to do these protestors or this community harm. We hope that this community will come together on this issue for a step in the right direction for a positive outcome. “

The protest is set to begin at 5 p.m. at the Fred’s store parking lot and will proceed down the center lanes of Dinah Shore Boulevard with two outside lane open to accommodate traffic. It’s final destination is the old Franklin County High School. •

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