Another non-violent protest was held in Jefferson Tuesday around the Greene County Courthouse.

The protest started on the south lawn of the courthouse where participant Hollie Roberts read her poem, “Ebony and Ivory” that was published in Lyrical Iowa in 2018. Roberts spoke about her inspiration for the poem which were her two bi-racial grandchildren. Then co-organizer Dale Hanaman read a few excerpts from various articles and books about systemic racism in the U.S. The participants then walked around the courthouse carrying signs about racial injustice.

Jefferson Police Chief Mark Clouse shared his thoughts about the weekly protests.

“You have the right in this country to protest something that you don’t agree with and that’s what makes this country what it is. We’ve had absolutely zero problems or concerns – I guess is even a better way – about the ones that have been held here in town. I think it’s a great thing for people to be able to express their freedom of speech.”

Hanaman noted the protests will continue on a weekly basis on Tuesdays at noon by the courthouse.