People in Leeds asked to kneel outside their homes to show solidarity against racism

It comes following the death of George Floyd on May 25 when a white police officer knelt on his neck for eight minutes.

The officer has been charged with second-degree murder and three other officers have been charged with aiding and abetting second degree murder.

His death has led to mass protests in America and across the globe.

Leeds Council are now encouraging people to stand in solidarity with those protesting by taking part in the 8for8 initiative on Monday, June 8.

The 8for8 initiative asks residents to perform one of the following gestures for eight minutes at 8pm on Monday evening:

- Kneeling outside of the home.

- The Namaste greeting outside of the home, which is a gesture denoting healing, peace, prayer and a divine spark within each human being.

- Any other form of activity within the home which is considered peaceful.

The council are also encouraging the public to wear something purple on the day to help honour the colour of solidarity with this cause.

Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council, and the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Eileen Taylor, said: "We want everyone to know that Leeds is a diverse city that celebrates every single one of its residents and is extremely proud of the wide range of cultures that call this city home.

"That is why we urge the people of Leeds to take part in 8for8 on Monday evening to underline the city’s solidarity with those fighting against racism and all other forms of prejudice.

"We believe that activities like this are vital for sending out the message to our communities and around the world that the city and people of Leeds will not stand idly by when these types of injustices happen.”

Leeds City Council will be lighting up civic buildings in purple over the weekend and on Monday to show the city’s solidarity with the family of George Floyd and with all those who are struggling against racism and prejudice.

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