Black Lives hold peaceful protest at marathon

Published 9:50 am Monday, October 5, 2015

ST. PAUL — Members of the St. Paul-based Black Lives Matter group have held a peaceful rally at the Twin Cities Marathon.

The group initially vowed to disrupt Sunday’s marathon to raise awareness about issues between St. Paul police and people of color. But the group backed down after a meeting with the mayor and threats of arrest.

According to a press release, the group marched within 50 yards of barriers near the end of the course but did not disrupt the event. St. Paul police said no one was arrested.

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A potential disruption raised fears among runners who had trained for months. The race is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon.

Mayor Chris Coleman said the group’s leader, Rashad Turner, assured him protesters wouldn’t interfere with runners and the rally would be peaceful.