Protestors Promise Biggest Freddie Gray Rally Yet
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- More protests, more concern and more questions about the death of Freddie Gray while in police custody.
Christie Ileto has more on Saturday's planned demonstrations.
In hours, thousands of people are expected to descend on City Hall. That includes Baltimore residents and out-of-towners.
We've seen these protests ever since Gray's passing on Sunday, with no signs of letting up.
"What are you hiding?" It's been the rally cry since Freddie Gray died.
"It is my duty and my responsibility to speak for others," said one protestor.
Images don't explain why the 25-year-old's spine was nearly severed while in police custody.
Few answers have fueled protests.
"Two weeks ago, we were doing a silent protest at our school for Walter Scott. Now we're doing Freddie Gray. Who's to say next week people won't be saying 'I am Caylin Young,'" law student Caylin Young said.
Local law students now join in protest on the eve of what will be the largest gathering this week.
The barricades are up, the police presence is heavy and marchers are expected to rally at the Western District. It's the last known location of Freddie Gray before he was taken to the ICU at Maryland Shock Trauma.
From there, they're going to get on North Avenue, head downtown and end at City Hall.
"As we mourn Freddie Gray, we are reminded--this is our community," one faith-based leader said.
City activists and clergy plead for peaceful demonstrations.
Click here for the latest on the investigation into Freddie Gray's death.
"When you do have outside agitators that come in, and they're just talking about we're going to take lives, we're going to burn something down, that actually diffuses what I'm trying to do," said Dr. Ted Sutton, organizer.
Protests have been poignant, but nonviolent.
"When the cameras are off and this matter has been resolved, we still have to live here," said Maryland Congressman Elijah Cummings.
A reminder to those planning to march in the wave of protest sweeping the city.
The Gray family is also asking that people do not protest on Sunday or Monday because those are the days they are holding a wake and a funeral for Freddie.
Donations in honor of Gray are being accepted by The Freddie Gray Fund via GoFundMe. You can also donate by sending money to The Harbor Bank of Maryland at 25 W. Fayette Street Baltimore, Md. 21201.