The Big Island is continuing its support of the nationwide Black Lives Matter movement.   On Thursday  in Waimea, people are invited to gather in front of the Foodland from 3 p.m. until 4 p.m.  On Friday, June 19, people are invited to gather in front of Walgreen’s in Hilo from 12:30 until 3 p.m.

All those going to gatherings or marches are reminded to wear masks and bring water–and rain or sun gear as appropriate.

The CDC has now issued new guidelines for those who will be going to gatherings, both for the organizers and those individuals attending.  CDC Director Robert Redfield and Jay C. Butler, M.D., CDC’s Deputy Director of Infectious Diseases and COVID-19 Response Incident Manager, said in a CDC press conference on June 12 that wearing masks, staying physically apart if possible, and frequent hand washing is critical to keep people safe and the COVID count low.

On Saturday in Kailua-Kona, more than a hundred people gathered and walked in the area from Target through Kailua Village.   Last Sunday, at least 200 people gathered along Bayfront to show support.

Photos of the Hilo Black Lives Matter peaceful demonstration on Sunday, June 14, 2020, courtesy of Kim Miller.