Thousands march through downtown Fresno for George Floyd protest

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The streets of downtown Fresno rang with chants and calls for justice on Sunday afternoon.

Thousands of peaceful protestors hit the streets to protest the death of George Floyd, in one of the largest demonstrations in the city's recent history.

People rallied together holding signs, banners and wearing shirts calling for action.

"When is this going to end? Somewhere along the line we have to take a stand," said Terry Myers, one protester.

The demonstration was organized by Fresno State NAACP along with other prominent community leaders.

They first gathered in front of City Hall, where community leaders spoke about racial inequalities, including in southern Fresno communities. Protesters were urged to stay peaceful so their message would remain clear.

A majority of the crowd wore white shirts and black pants to honor Floyd. The 46-year-old black man died on Memorial Day after prosecutors say a white Minneapolis Police officer pinned him down by the neck for nearly nine minutes. That officer, Derek Chauvin, is now charged with murder and manslaughter.

Organizers of the Fresno protest said they have more than 50 volunteer security guards helping keep the peace.

People marched on Fresno Street stopping at Police Headquarters, where police brutality and social injustices.

Demonstrators then made their way back to City Hall.

The outpouring of support moving those who participated.

"It was proud moment walking up to the crowd and seeing how big it was and the diversity within it," said Jaycee Hines, a protester.

After the demonstration, Fresno Police Chief Andy Hall held a press conference.

"What is saw today was truly beautiful, our community came together," he said. "I heard their words and we are ready to reach out to those organizers and start working with the community to build a better stronger community."

Officers estimate more than 3,000 people participated in Sunday's demonstration.