Protesters with the Justice for Steve Perkins movement made their way through Decatur Friday.
It was the first one this year, and the first one since the city made the requirement that you must have a permit to protest.
Those protesting did not get a permit approved by the city. Friday’s protest took over two hours and there was not a police officer or vehicle in sight.
Decatur resident Alainah Dailey said, “Our definition of peaceful is being non-violent because we love the city of Decatur just like Steve Perkins did, but they want our definition of peaceful to be quiet, and we’re not going to be quiet.â€
Protesters marching through Decatur were technically in violation of the city’s parade ordinance since they did not get a permit approved, but there wasn’t a city official or officer in sight to stop them.
Those protesting say they think the city only enforces the parade ordinance if they are outside Mayor Tab Bowling’s home.
Dailey said, “It was an empty threat from the mayor. It only happens when we show up outside the mayor’s house. When we stay on the sidewalks of 6th Avenue and downtown, I guess in their opinion, we disturb the peace of Mellow Mushroom because we are loud, but we are not being violent towards anyone.â€
So what's next for those demanding justice for Steve Perkins?
Terrance Adkins told WAAY 31, “We want to see the prosecution, termination, and arrest of all officers involved, as well as the tow truck company involved. Our demands have not changed from day one, and we’re going to continue to push those demands.â€
Brionna Watkins said, “We’re back outside. We’re ready full force. We’ve been doing it for four months. It's nothing new to us. We’re gonna continue to protest until we get justice.â€
As people protested in Decatur, no parade or noise ordinance was enforced. Those protesting did not go near Mayor Tab Bowling’s home.
