DES MOINES, Iowa — Des Moines Police officers and protesters joined together to take a knee over the death of George Floyd Sunday night.
The moment took place at around 9 p.m. outside the Des Moines Police Department downtown, just as a curfew went into effect.
Several hundred protesters gathered in front of the police station asked police to take a knee with them. The protesters dispersed shortly after the large group of officers took a knee with them.
The stay at home curfew was issued by the Polk County Board of Supervisors. It was scheduled from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m. Monday. A news release from the county said the board's decision was supported by community leaders and law enforcement, as well as Governor Kim Reynolds.
Polk County Board of Supervisor Chair Matt McCoy said the curfew was meant to preserve the safety of residents and businesses.
“It is heartbreaking to watch as some businesses started responsibly opening their doors to face this backlash of unrest," said McCoy. "It is imperative that we have cooperation from the community to prevent violence and property damage. For this reason, Polk County has no other choice but to make this difficult decision in order to protect and preserve the rights, privileges, and property of Polk County and its residents and to preserve the peace, safety, health, welfare of its residents.”
(Image courtesy of WHO-TV)