Last Monday, George Floyd was killed by a police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota, after being held face down with a knee to his neck for nearly nine minutes.

On Friday afternoon, a text went out about a protest gathering in Johnson Square, downtown Savannah.

After meeting with organizers and members of the faith-based community, Mayor Van Johnson and other government leaders took part in the rally.

We will be upset as a community, but under no circumstances are we going to allow anyone to destroy our community,” said Mayor Johnson, Monday during a follow-up press conference.

He was pleased to let it be known that former Mayor Dr. Otis Johnson would be part of this task force to lead the way to a brighter day for the community.