BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Dozens of demonstrators took over parts of Hertel Avenue in Buffalo Friday night, calling on businesses along the busy corridor between Delaware Avenue and Parkside Avenue to denounce racism.
This is the fourth protest in North Buffalo since last Friday, when Black Lives Matter demonstrators were confronted by two men who hurled racist remarks at them. Police have since charged 47-year-old Michael Cremen with a hate crime.
Earlier this week, during another demonstration along Hertel Avenue, a group of patrons at MT Pockets hurled racist remarks at protesters. The establishment has since been scrutinized and voluntarily temporarily closed.
"We do not tolerate racism in our establishment," the owners of MT Pockets said in a written statement.
The most recent demonstration is now calling on all businesses along Hertel Avenue to denounce racism and publicly state their level of support for Black patrons. Organizers of the protest say the Black community supports businesses in every corner of Buffalo, and now they are counting on the businesses to support them.
