In a show of support for Alaska’s law enforcement officers, a group of Alaskans will hold a rally on Thursday, June 18, at the Anchorage Police Department (716 W. 4^th Ave in the old LIO Building).

Scheduled from 2:30-3:30 p.m., the gathering will take place as officers make their daily shift change.

Across the nation, similar rallies have occurred in an effort to show community solidarity with police at a time when some are calling on cities and states to defund and disband entire departments. The death of an unarmed black man, George Floyd, while in the custody of Minneapolis police officers last month sparked protests across the country. In many cases, law enforcement as a whole has been condemned.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy said he has no plans defund officers in Alaska. At a June 10 press conference, he condemned the killing of George Floyd, but said the “vast majority” of officers are decent people who are willing to lay their lives on the line to help others. He cautioned against painting all officers with the same brush.

Attendees at the Anchorage rally are encouraged to wear blue and bring signs in support of the police. Organizers are hoping to keep the rally positive and participants are asked to keep the signage focused on the hard work of law enforcement without criticizing those who disagree.

“We are to be respectful and honor our officers in blue,” an announcement for the event states. “Let’s show our support for the men and women in blue!”

Participants should arrive around 2 p.m. and be ready for the rally kickoff at 2:30 p.m. Children are welcome to attend if accompanied by an adult.