#Pro-Palestine demonstrators rally in Los Angeles during Black Friday shopping

Pro-Palestinian protestors rallied in Los Angeles on Black Friday, multiple outlets reported.

The protestors made their way through The Grove shopping center in the city’s Fairfax District on the day after Thanksgiving, notable for encouraging shoppers and sales, according to CBS Los Angeles. The protestors reportedly began their trek at neighboring Pan Pacific Park.

“Traffic Advisory: Wilshire Division is monitoring a demonstration in the area of 3rd Street and Fairfax,” a post by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Wilshire Community Police Station on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter read. “Demonstrators have blocked some intersections. Expect traffic delays if you are traveling through this area.”

The protest was a result of the international “Shut it Down for Palestine” effort planned by pro-Palestinian groups, according to CBS. The effort called for action on Black Friday.

“We call on movements, organized labor, youth, students, media and healthcare workers, and all members of society to join us in demanding an immediate ceasefire, cutting all aid to Israel, and lifting the siege on Gaza,” the website for Shut it Down for Palestine reads. 

“This call to action started on November 9, but we will continue to build up the momentum with ongoing days of action. No business as usual until Palestine is Free!” the website continues. 

Hamas began releasing hostages Friday, the first day of a four-day truce to free 50 hostages taken by Hamas during its Oct. 7 attack on Israel. The attack sparked a now almost two-month long war between Israel and Hamas.