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People across the country participated in a peaceful protest against police brutality in response to the death of Michael Brown, the unarmed teen who was killed after an officer shot him multiple times.

Starting at 7 p.m., vigils were held all over the United States as part of National Moment of Silence. This comes days after people began calling for a memorial via social media, using the hashtag #NMOS14.

Although Brown’s shooting happened in Ferguson, Missouri, where people have been demonstrating for days, community activist Feminista Jones–who started the hashtag–pointed out how police brutality is a national problem.

MUST READ: From The Frontlines: KMOV’s Brittany Noble Reports Michael Brown Shooting Aftermath In Ferguson, Mo. [VIDEO]

“It’s not just Ferguson. Police brutality is pervasive. It’s happening in so many cities,” she told USA Today. “We’re having a national moment of silence — one chord, one silent voice — to honor not only Mike Brown, not only Eric Garner, but all victims of police brutality, especially those who have lost their lives.”

Communities are gathering in just about every major city in the U.S. tonight, including: Washington D.C., Baltimore, Boston, St. Louis, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Charlotte. New York City held two vigils: one in Harlem and another in Lower Manhattan. These aren’t the only vigil sites though, as even many more cities across the country are participating in the national moment of silence.

MUST READ: War Zone: Can You Tell The Difference Between Ferguson & Iraq?

Those that couldn’t make it out for the vigil have been able to show their support via social media, where moments from the rallies have been shared. Many people are lifting their arms in surrender, silently pleading, “Don’t shoot.”

Whether every-day citizens or notable figures, thousands of people poured into public places to show their support for the movement.

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Some socially conscious parents and care takers have also made sure to bring their children out to participate in the vigil. In Detroit, this little boy even held up a sign demanding, “Respect My Innocence.”

Meanwhile one Twitter user had to get “Community” star Donald Glover together over his opinion that Twitter activism is often ineffective.

READ MORE:

President Obama Releases A Statement About Michael Brown’s Death

Michael Brown’s Mother Speaks On Ferguson Police Gunning Down Her Son: “They’re Not Telling Me Anything” [EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW]

Unarmed Teen Michael Brown Was Shot And Killed By Police And Some Media Outlets Are Already Framing Him For His Own Death [OPINION]

Hands Up, Don’t Shoot: Ferguson Sparks Photo Movement
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