Authorities See Protest Progress Tuesday

Protests around the Country Club Plaza over the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis were reportedly more calm on Tuesday than prior days.

No tear gas was deployed yesterday, though there were an estimated 30 arrests. 

“From what I have heard, last evening was the calmest night thus far of protests with the beginning of efforts to de-escalate. I am glad to see it. I will get a full report at daybreak, but I expect the progress we see tonight to continue,” wrote Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas on Twitter.

Today is planned to be a March of Unity, with Kansas City Police Department officers joining protesters. It is scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and conclude with a press conference by Lucas and KCPD Chief Richard Smith. Then there will reportedly be a moderated discussion between police and protesters.

KCPD spokesperson Sgt. Jacob Becchina said it was, “our best night yet, by far” in protests that have taken place since Friday, reported KSHB.

“It was a great showing of unity from some of the most influential members of our community,” he reportedly said.

Meanwhile, across other parts of the country, protests were also reportedly more peaceful than recent days. Derek Chauvin, the Minneapolis police officer who killed Floyd, has been charged with third-degree murder in the death.