Picture by Karla Gowlett

We asked those who attended to tell us their reasons for doing so. Here's what they said. 

If you were there and would like to let us know where you wanted to attend, click the button at the bottom of this story.

1. I went to the protest because I believe it’s time for a change. Treating people as equals is not a revolutionary issue but it seems like it’s turned into one and I’m willing to use my voice to fight the injustice.

Picture by Denis Elmes 

2. We attended the protest because we are fed up of staying silent. It was a really moving and emotional event that was very well organised with social distancing measured implemented all throughout and PPE being handed out at all times.

Picture by Matthew Veal

3. I attended the protest because I believe that people should stand up against the injustice and prejudice that surrounds black culture and racism should stop.

4. I have experienced racism in my home country of Slovakia, I have also experienced racism in Bournemouth, Brighton, London and I’m tired of it. I want my children to grow up in a better world where they don’t have to watch their backs when they are free to live the best life. UK is definitely not innocent in this matter. We need to do better!!!!

Picture by Diana Olloova

5. We attended today because it was important to me that my nine-year-old son got to see all the support for the BLM movement against racism. He is mixed race (white and black British with Jamaican heritage) and has also experienced racism at school and from a family friend. He has been passionate about participating in anti-racism work and he needed to be involved with this peaceful protest to show his support. At only nine-years-old he has many years ahead and he will be raised with compassion and no prejudice. Peace on Earth starts at birth- we all need to work together to defeat racism and systemic white supremacy- yes it is a global issue, unfortunately even in sunny Bournemouth.

Picture by Russ Collins 

6. Me and my friends went to the protest as my friend was racially abused a week ago! And it’s time for change! The reason I was marching it’s not just America that's the problem. You can post something it takes 2 minutes to state a movement that can change the world. The racism in this county is so deeply embedded in our systems that many people can't see it and so many people think they don't need to help.

7. I took part at George Floyd protest to send a message. He is a symbol, hatred and racism are clear in America but are ghosts that cause victims all over the world. It seems absurd, but there will always be prejudices and minorities.  Let's get used to listening and fighting peacefully with them in that the world is constantly changing. Let's get used to listen and support others' problems.  For the rights of all, not the majority.

Picture by Rachel Anderson 

8. This was a truly inspiring and empowering movement. As a young British man sheltered by white privilege for too long, I am so sorry for the unjustices and inequality People of Colour face - and I am determined to play my part in fighting for the rights of others. The UK is not innocent in these matters, and it's time to own up and make a change, along with the rest of the World. #BlackLivesMatter. For those who say now is not the time to protest: Covid-19 hasn't stopped racism, therefore Covid-19 can't be used as an excuse to not fight for equality. The protest was well organised, social distancing was met, and PPE was supplied to those who needed it.

9. We attended the drive element only as we are high risk. It was great to be able to still take part in something we should all be passionate about. Black Lives Matter - finally the world is starting to see the truth.

Footage above by Karla Gowlett