March against police violence in downtown Austin

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Protestors marched against police violence in downtown Austin shutting down several roads earlier today. Those participating in the peaceful protest say they came together in a National Day of Action calling for #FreedomNow from what they say is state sanctioned violence.

In a news release, the group called Showing Up for Racial Justice says it organized the march to interrupt "business as usual" for the people and systems that continue to allow police violence against communities of color. The group says it supports the "Black Lives Matter" movement.

The march began at the Victory Grill on 11th Street a little after 7 a.m. and headed over to APD headquarters before marching back to Victory Grill. Participants carried signs, handmade caskets and photos of Austinites, like Larry Jackson Jr. and Byron Carter, who were killed during incidents with Austin police.

There was a huge police presence at the CVS nearby and officers escorted the group on its walk.

A "Black Lives Matter" rally is planned at the Travis County Courthouse at 7 p.m. tonight remembering those like Sandra Bland who died inside prison cells and jail walls.