Austin advocates protest in response to two shootings

In response to the deaths of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, peaceful protests are being carried out across the country including here in the capital city. Now, two local groups are calling for criminal justice reform.

Advocates and citizens met at the pavilion here to mourn and express their outrage.
This event was planned yesterday in response to the Alton Sterling shooting but morphed into a rally for Philando Castile as well after hearing about his death.
Both incidents are sparking controversy on police protocol. Fox 7 spoke to a retired officer who gave his thoughts on the videos. He says in regards to the Castile shooting the officer may have been out of line.

“When someone identified themselves as a concealed carry holder, for most police officers it puts them somewhat at ease,” Jerry Staton, retired Austin police officer, said.

“We do have a little bit of power and it lies right here in our hands. By arming ourselves with our own body cameras, we're starting to be able to take back what's really ours,” Meme Styles with the Austin Justice Coalition, said.

The protest was peaceful.