Following a massive protest by the NAACP in which 151 people were arrested at the North Carolina state capitol, Gov. Pat McCrory said the demonstrators against conservative policies are welcome to continue their protest — as long as it's done in a lawful manner.
"We welcome feedback, we welcome lawful demonstrations. However, we don't welcome unlawful demonstrations, and that should not be accepted," the Republican said after the Monday protest,
WTVD-TV in Raleigh-Durham reports.
"I am pleased that it's been non-violent, though, and that's the second most important parameter. That it be lawful and non-violent. I'm very pleased with the way the authorities have handled it, in a non-violent manner."
His comments came after about 1,600 people rallied behind the Legislative Building on Halifax Mall in Raleigh, singing and giving speeches in opposition to what one television station described as "the rightward shift of the state legislature." According to WTVD, they are protesting what they say is the state's neglect of the poor.
But the NAACP demonstrators have been joined by other groups "ranging from abortion-rights supporters to environmentalists and public educators," the ABC-affiliate reported. The television station also noted that the protest has "attracted people from all over North Carolina and other states."
Those arrested were charged with second-degree trespassing.
The NAACP has held weekly Monday protests in Raleigh since April and plans to continue them.
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