Pro-Palestine demonstrators march in Rhode Island, disrupt Black Friday shopping

Hundreds of demonstrators marched in downtown Providence, Rhode Island, amidst Black Friday shopping to call for justice for the people of Palestine.

The protest began at the Rhode Island State House with a prayer service, and made its way to the entrance of the Providence Place Mall.

One demonstrator, who didn’t want to share her name, said the original plan was to go inside the mall, but Providence Police officers blocked the doors.

"There were almost 20 to 30 officers, I think, guarding the front door to the mall,” she said.

She explained that the purpose of going inside the mall was not entirely geared towards the shoppers on Black Friday, but the businesses themselves.

The national organization, Party for Socialism and Liberation, spread awareness on social media about the “Shut It Down for Palestine” boycott, which took place around the world.

The defense contractor headquartered in Providence was also singled out.

"We walked to the corporation Textron that is providing some of those weapons and military equipment to Israel," said Imam AbdulLatif Sackor, Islamic Center of Rhode Island.

Members of the Islamic Center of RI joined in on the march.

The Israeli cabinet approved a cease-fire deal Wednesday that put starting Friday, but for many protesters, that wasn't enough.

"We are looking for not just a temporary humanitarian pause," said a protester.

The protest remained peaceful. A prayer service was also held.

"We all sort of understand that this is peaceful place where we can all stand together for liberation," said the protestor.