'I Can’t Breathe’ Chants Echo Through Downtown Toronto As Protests Begin

Torontonians are taking to the streets. The massive Toronto protest on Friday saw hundreds of demonstrators chanting “I can’t breathe” in Nathan Philips Square. The chant echoes the words of George Floyd, whose death at the hands of Minneapolis police has sparked worldwide protests against police brutality.

In the clips, a large group can be seen chanting the phrase while kneeling in the square and raising their fists in solidarity.

It was reported that about 500 people gathered in the area to ensure that their voices were heard. 

Videos also appeared online where protesters were holding signs and chanting "no peace" and "we want justice."

Toronto Police Chief Mark Saunders and a fellow officer also took a knee with the crowd.

The chief was photographed kneeling with the crowd near College Street and raising his fist in support of those who were out on the streets. 

Toronto Police also reported that the demonstration remained peaceful and the attendees were being respectful to both officers and other protestors on the scene. 

It’s worth noting that the march, which began at Bloor-Yonge station and ended in Nathan Phillips, was not organized by the Black Lives Matter group.

The human rights group released a statement on Friday morning, denying its involvement in the demonstration.

However, this isn't the only protest that has taken place in Toronto over the last few weeks. 

Demonstrators filled Christie Pits Park on May 30 to protest the death of Regis Korchinski-Paquet.

Multiple other protests are reportedly planned to take place this weekend in the city as activists stand up against police brutality. 

Several stores have boarded up their windows, and others, such as the Eaton Centre, have shut down until Monday due to the large gatherings. 

The TTC also announced that several of their entrances will be closed. 

*Cover used for illustrative purposes only.