A PROTEST in support of the Black Lives Matter movement is being organised for Taunton.

As demonstrations sweep the globe in a show of support against police brutality, residents in Taunton will also be able to get involved.

The latest string of protests were sparked after 46-year-old George Floyd was killed in Minneapolis, USA, after he was arrested for allegedly using counterfeit money to buy a packet of cigarettes on May 25.

Mr Floyd died after a white police officer, Derek Chauvin, placed his knee on his neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds.

Chauvin has been charged with murder, while three other officers involved have been charged with abetting the crime, but arrests weren't made until the strength of feeling was shown through protests and riots across the states.

Since Mr Floyd's death, demonstrations have erupted across the USA as well as further afield, including in the UK.

Anger continues as Mr Floyd's death is the latest person to die while police brutality goes seemingly unchecked across America.

There are numerous other cases where African-American people have been killed by law enforcement in the US, while the officers involved get away unconvicted.

Another heartbreaking recent example is Breonna Taylor, who was shot eight times and killed by police carrying out a 'no-knock' warrant at her Louisville home, despite two suspects already being in police custody.

Protests have also been taking place across the UK, as protestors express outrage against racism, in the USA and closer to home.

Taunton residents will now have a chance to get involved, but organisers stress the importance of social distancing to keep people safe throughout the coronavirus crisis.

A protest is planned for Friday, June 12, in Vivary Park at noon.

A spokesperson for Taunton BLM said: "We would love for people to come and support the Black Lives Matter movement with us in a safe and peaceful environment.

"Social distancing measures will be in place and we ask that everyone be aware of Covid-19.

"We want people to feel safe to join together in support of black lives matter and justice for George Floyd."

The organisers are asking participants to wear a mask at all times and gloves if possible, and to consider self isolating afterwards if necessary. 

While Somerset West and Taunton Council would not speak to condemn the killing of Mr Floyd, the authority has said it supports the right to protest peacefully.

A spokesperson for SWT said: “The council respects the lawful right for people to express their views through peaceful demonstrations or protests.

"If people are planning to congregate in our open spaces during this pandemic we would ask them to act responsibly and follow Government guidance on social distancing and safety to avoid spreading coronavirus in our communities.”

For more information on the BLM movement, petitions, and getting involved, visit blacklivesmatter.com