George Floyd protests in London: Upcoming dates and routes

Since the death of George Floyd, who died in police custody in Minneapolis last week, protests decrying systematic racism have spread across the US and around the globe.Since the death of George Floyd, who died in police custody in Minneapolis last week, protests decrying systematic racism have spread across the US and around the globe.

Mr Floyd, a 46-year-old black man from Minnesota, died after an incident on May 25 in which a police officer was caught on camera kneeling on his neck for almost nine minutes. He was arrested for allegedly using a counterfeit $20 bill.

Former officer Derek Chauvin has since been charged with second-degree murder, while the three other officers involbed - Thomas Lane, J. Kueng and Tou Thao - have been charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.

In disturbing video footage that went viral after his death, Mr Floyd repeatedly said "I can't breathe." These three words have now been used in protest graffiti and banners wielded by #BlackLivesMatter demonstrators, who began protesting in the US last week.

— CNN (@CNN)May 29, 2020The unrest has since grown violent, as US riot police fire tear gas canisters and bean-bag rounds at the activists. Looters have joined the crowds, several officers have been disciplined for excessive use of force, and journalists including CNN’s Omar Jimenez have been arrested while attempting to cover events.

The campaign has been picked up around the world, reaching London and the rest of the UK.

Black Lives Matter protest - London May 31, 2020When and where are the London protests?A protest for Black Lives Matter took place last Wednesday, and more are being organised in the UK’s capital over the weekend.

They can be followed on twitter via #LDNBLM.a group of people holding a sign: Thousands descended on London's streets in protest at George Floyd's death (Getty Images)© Provided by Evening Standard Thousands descended on London's streets in protest at George Floyd's death (Getty Images)

It is worth noting the UK Black Lives Matter Twitter account has disassociated from the organisation, saying it is "currently discussing the implications of calling a mass march in the middle of a pandemic that is killing us the most”.

Reservations arise from the fact lockdown restrictions - including a ban on large gatherings - remain in place across the UK.

Protest organisers have asked participants to observe social-distancing, but police have arrested protesters so far for various offences, including breaching lockdown.Live Black Lives Matter Protest, more attests by the police at Westminster London#Black Lives Matter #BLMLDN #BLM pic.twitter.com/LAFF1HP9df— Paul Brown🇬🇧 Cleveland Browns🏈 / Food🌶 Vlogger (@PaulBrown_UK)May 31, 2020For those wanting to show support, but wary of doing so in person, there are various ways to donate.

Mr Floyd's siblings are raising money for his funeral costs and to support his daughter here. Donations can also be made directly to Black Lives Matter here.For those who still want to take to the streets, this is a guide to when, where, and what to know in advance:

Peaceful protests have been scheduled for:Saturday, June 6 - Parliament Square, 1pm Sunday, June 7 - US embassy, 2pmA group of people holding a sign:

The protests have spread around the world (PA)© Provided by Evening Standard The protests have spread around the world (PA)Organisers are circulating information and advice as follows:

Remain peaceful - Bring protective masks and gloves, and if possible wet-wipes or anti-bacterial gel.

Observe two-metre social distancing guidelinesPack food and waterBring identification and emergency contact informationWear comfortable shoesTake sun-protectionIn case of arrest, carry essential medicines (e.g. inhalers) on your person.

Women on periods are advised to wear pads instead of tampons in case toilet access is restricted by events or arrest Under the #BLMLDN hashtag, people can find info graphics informing them of their rights in case of arrest, with advice on limiting the harmful effects of tear gas.  

Those protesting in the UK, be aware police can FINE & possibly ARREST those in large gatherings who refuse to disperse. STAY SAFE. COVER YOUR FACE. SOCIAL DISTANCE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.

THE PANDEMIC IS STILL REAL AND AFFECTS OUR COMMUNITIES THE MOST. #BLMLDN pic.twitter.com/ISO5kUsxHl— Meme kami -BLM- (@SashAxles)May 31, 2020

Protests are also being convened in Manchester, Cardiff, Nottingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Liverpool, Bristol, Southampton, Newcastle, Norwich, Leicester, Oxford and other UK cities.

Reference: Evening Standard : Mathilda Mallinson 4 hrs ago June 5th 2020