WCAC

So far this year, demonstrations in Waltham have been non-confrontational. That changed Thursday evening.

With racial tensions once again inflamed over a police shooting in Wisconsin, a crowd of roughly 60 demonstrators supporting police were met by counter-protestors in front of city hall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Around 6:30 p.m., roughly 30 counter-protestors gathered across the street in front of the military recruiting station at the corner of Lexington and Main.

A handful crossed the street and confronted police supporters.

It was a tense but nonviolent situation. Both sides chanted and grew increasingly vocal as cars drove by, honking in support of each side.

The police support rally, called “We Thank and Support” on Facebook, was organized by former city councilor Sally Collura. Other former councilors also appeared, along with a former Republican candidate for office.

The majority of pro-police protestors were older. Some had pro-Trump signs and apparel, but most held signs thanking law enforcement.

On Facebook, the rally for the opposing side was called “Love WINS Rally” and was organized by GO Waltham.

Almost all the counter-demonstrators were younger. Their signs said abolish and defund the police.

A member of Progressive Waltham who had previously run for a city council seat appeared alongside them.