BAKERSFIELD, CA. — It's been one week since protests began in Bakersfield. Hundreds have taken to the streets to make their voices heard, honoring the life of George Floyd, the man Minnesota man who died under police custody.
“For seven or eight minutes someone was stepping on this man and for some reason this country thinks that's ok, we need justice for him," said a local protester.
The last seven days, different demonstrations have been held around town for the Black Lives Matter movement.
The unwavering protests have sparked a conversation in our local law enforcement.
“The vast majority of our community members that have been out expressing themselves and letting their voice be heard have been peaceful the concerns and anger and emotions are genuine," said Greg Terry, Bakersfield Police Department chief.
Going into a new weekend, it's unclear if the message has been made.
“To build that trust between our community and police officers that conversation is the starting point," said a local protester.