Extinction Rebellion backs Black Lives Matter protest in Leeds

The socially-distant, peaceful protest is set to be held at 2pm in Hyde Park on Sunday, June 21.

It follows a joint demonstration with Black Voices Matter in Millennium Square last weekend.

A spokeswoman for Extinction Rebellion Leeds said: "We have recently adopted a 4th Demand outlining how the climate crisis cannot be tackled without addressing the racial injustices in our communities and across the globe.

"For example, the production methods of goods such as sugar, coffee, chocolate and cotton are exploitative of the planet and of people.

"Progress and reparations must be made, and we pledge to work in our own community and speak up for those who are at the greatest disadvantage within the system.”

Marvina Newton from Black Lives Matter Leeds said: "We come together to unite as a city and a nation to fight racism.

"No longer will we be silent because silence is consent.

"We aim to create a network to ensure that black lives matter and that power is share equally with black communities in order to dismantle systemic racism in our city and beyond."

An entry system will be in place to stagger arrivals into the park.

Once on site, volunteers will assist with directing people to clear spaces, ensuring attendees keep to social distancing guidelines of at least 2 meters between different households.

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