Citizens gathered for a Black Lives Matter rally at MLK Park in Buffalo late Friday afternoon.
"Our people united can never be defeated", chanted the crowd.
Organizer Duncan Kirkwood spoke about the importance of holding a public rally despite concerns of potential violence in wake of the deadly police shootings in Dallas.
"You understand that's a big deal. It's a big deal to step up here and have people from the city saying 'no, you can't do that today', to have the community say oh no it's going to be violent if we do it," Kirkwood told the crowd.
Kirkwood said it takes 'courage' to rally together in this difficult time. He noted the crowd was very peaceful.
Buffalo Police were visible standing across the street from the rally. Buffalo Peace Makers and SNUG members also watched over the rally.
Community activists also started a "Do Something" campaign calling for more community policing and more local involvement.
