San Francisco Prepares For New Year's Eve Fireworks, Police Ready For Demonstrators
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)— While fireworks are being set up for the annual New Year's Eve festivities along San Francisco's Embarcadero waterfront, many are vowing to rally tonight out of continued protest.
The Stop Mass Incarceration Network, a national organization, has called for the demonstrations and have vowed it will be a peaceful protest. The police killings of unarmed black men and the subsequent controversial grand jury decisions to not indict them sparked nationwide unrest.
D'Andre Teeter from the group's Bay Area chapter spoke at a Wednesday morning news conference in front of San Francisco's Hall of Justice where he said they want to send a message that protests will continue into 2015.
"This movement is still alive and well and will be growing," Teeter said.
Maya Malika with The Bay Area Revolution Club said several local organizations are participating.
"As the clock winds down and the powers that be hope to celebrate this New Year's that carries forward business as usual; this must not be allowed," she said.
San Francisco Police Spokesman Officer Gordon Shyy said because of the holiday, staffing levels were already increased and he said they are aware of the demonstration planned at the foot of Market Street.
"As with any protest, we welcome First Amendment activities as long as they remain peaceful," Shyy said.
