WARREN — People from across Trumbull County met in Warren tonight and shouted in unison — demanding justice not only for George Floyd, but for other black and brown people who have been abused by law enforcement officers.

National change needs to start at the local level, believes Ty Powell, of the “We Matter” movement.

Powell, 19, of Warren, organized the peaceful protest at Perkins Park Monday evening in response to the death of George Floyd, 46, on Memorial Day. Floyd died in police custody after former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, 44, knelt on his neck to restrain him.

“Me, being an African-American myself, and having a black son and a black brother … that sparked something in me to go out and evoke change,” said Powell. “I did have that common fear as I am raising a black son, but that has transitioned into hope. Change is possible and we need to teach our children that. It starts with the children.”

Powell believes this city is currently divided and that the protest is going to help bring unity to the city. “Today will show who cares and who will step out when the odds are against us.”

Read MORE in Tuesday’s Tribune Chronicle.