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AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Organizers of a planned march from the Texas State Capitol to Austin City Hall Sunday have canceled the event, but crowds are still gathering at the Capitol.
The Austin Justice Coalition had planned to hold a peaceful protest called "Justice For Them All", honoring the deaths of George Floyd and Michael Ramos, as well as Breonna Taylor and others killed by police brutality.
AJC executive director and co-founder Chas Moore, in a video posted to Facebook Sunday morning, said that others have "co-opted black anger and outrage to become anarchists in this moment" and that the group could not ensure the safety of black protesters. "There's no way I can allow black people in Austin to come out and not be safe," Moore said.
Austin Police, in a tweet, said a total of 19 people were arrested through Saturday's protests into Sunday morning, with charges ranging from robbery to assault on a peace officer and obstructing a highway.
Michael Ramos’ mother, Brenda, issued a statement Saturday asking for a peaceful protest. "I am heartbroken over the terrible murder of George Floyd. I understand the anger. But I am pleading with the community, please do not commit violence in my son Mike’s name," Ramos said in her statement.
Texas DPS officials said the state capitol grounds will remain closed Sunday.
Sunday morning, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster for all Texas counties, enabling federal agents to be designated as Texas peace officers. "As protests have turned violent in various areas across the state, it is crucial that we maintain order, uphold public safety, and protect against property damage or loss. By authorizing additional federal agents to serve as Texas Peace Officers we will help protect people’s safety while ensuring that peaceful protesters can continue to make their voices heard."