Vigil For Philando Castile Continues At Governor's Residence
ST. PAUL, Minn. (WCCO) -- A three block stretch of Summit Avenue remains closed in front of the Governor's Residence where protesters are continuing their vigil in honor of Philando Castile.
The scene is reminiscent of the occupation of Minneapolis' 4th Precinct following the shooting death of Jamar Clark last December. But Plymouth Avenue and Summit Avenue couldn't be more opposite. For the time being, residents here seem very patient.
Music playing at the front steps of the Governor's Residence was meant to soften what's been a tense -- and at times, violent -- response to the police shooting.
"None of us want to be here, no we don't," said Castile family friend Faye Jefferson.
Jefferson dropped by to support those speaking out.
"I'm heartbroken for this country. I'm heartbroken because we just don't know where the answers lie anymore," Jefferson said.
Protesters' messages are clearly seen on the wrought iron fencing. But when asked to put it into words, protest leaders told members of the media there will be no interviews.
"The black culture in this country is so tired of being misunderstood," said one protester.
Police call the situation day-by-day, but a mix of tarps, portable shelters, food and water indicate a longer presence is planned.
"You have to change your route, sometimes parking's a little difficult," said resident Karla Hughes.
Three blocks of Summit remain closed to traffic. At this point, Hughes says it's just a minor inconvenience.
"Everyone has a right to speak their mind and to protest is one of our rights, so you have to honor that," Hughes said.
Five days into the vigil there seems a sense of calm -- sharing water with police, lunching on sandwiches in the grass. Still, the question becomes once protesters are asked to leave, will they comply or risk confrontation?
"I'm praying that there's a message and that we will someday be able to come together," said Jefferson.
Recall that the Minneapolis occupation of the 4th Precinct lasted 18 days. Under pressure from neighbors and north side leaders, police forced them out.
At this point, St. Paul police maintain they are taking it day-by-day.
