East End Protests Focus on Justice and Juneteenth

This weekend events in protest of police brutality and racial inequality continue across the East End.

On Juneteenth, a holiday that marks the end of slavery, there are protests scheduled in every major city, as well as in Montauk and Southampton Village.

East End Against Hate, a student-based organization that aims to educate the community on racial injustices, organized a protest on Friday at the Henry “Hank” Zebrowski Memorial Soccer Field on South Erie Street, from 3 to 5 PM. The group also organized the protest in Sag Harbor on June 5.

“In this protest, we hope to address the violent acts of racism that have transpired in recent weeks and to educate those who have either chosen to stay silent or who have actively participated in the spread of discrimination,” the group said in an email. “We have peaceful intentions and will not tolerate aggression nor destruction.”

Masks are a must and social distancing is encouraged when possible. Food and drinks will be provided.

This is not the first protest in Montauk. On June 5, the surfing community gathered Friday evening at Ditch Plains as part of “Solidarity in Surf,” a worldwide protest paddle out to remember George Floyd and all those who lost their lives to police brutality.

Two events are slated for Agawam Park in Southampton Village on Friday. The first, at 10 AM, is a Juneteenth celebration. There will be food, speakers, and information. Attendees can bring lawn chairs, but are asked to wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Long Island United Youth has organized a “Black History Matters” at Agawam Park at 6 PM. According to the flyer, the event is “where we all come together and march for ALL the black lives facing racial injustice in America.”

Also on Friday, a 25-mile bicycle ride will take place on the North Fork from 5 to 8 PM. The Motley Crew Bicycle Club will lead the #25MilesforJustice from Jamesport to Greenport, and anyone can join in along the way.

On Saturday, “Unity in the Community,” a voters registration rally will take place at Stozky Park in Riverhead, starting at 1 PM. There will be guest speakers, information about voting, a car show, a BBQ and music by DJ Phil. Eric Williams, who was the first to organize a protest on the East End in the wake George Floyd’s death, has put together the event.