The crowd gathered in front of the RCMP Detachment.

(BRIE WELTON / iNFOnews.ca)

Despite being cancelled by the original organizers, an anti-racism rally drew a large crowd in downtown Kamloops this afternoon.

According to an Instagram post from the event organizers today, they felt uncomfortable organizing an event on behalf of people of colour and said the event was cancelled.

But that didn't stop the huge crowd from showing up as planned with signs of support. 

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Cheering protesters gathered at Riverside Park around noon, before embarking on a march through the streets of downtown. 

(BRIE WELTON / iNFOnews.ca)

Kamloops RCMP were on the scene, and police cars were seen blocking some roads to traffic, allowing protesters to march safely.

Kamloops RCMP were on site, blocking roads to traffic for the protesters as they marched through downtown.

(BRIE WELTON / iNFOnews.ca)

"We've dealt with a lot of racism personally, our daughter dealt with it in school, my husband has dealt with it his whole life," protester Nicole Persaud said. "It very important for us to stand up and try to make the change."

(BRIE WELTON / iNFOnews.ca)

Other protesters were marching for personal reasons too.

"My little brother is half black and half native. He's also non-verbal autistic," said Vinnita Lamarche. "I'm really nervous for his future. I just want to start the change, and help him have a better future too."

(BRIE WELTON / iNFOnews.ca)

As the crowd left Riverside Park, one officer said that they had no issues with violent behaviour from participants.

READ MORE: Kamloops man dissatisfied with RCMP handling of discrimination complaint

Along the streets, people came out of shops to watch the march go by. Drivers in passing vehicles waved and honked their support, and were answered with cheers from the crowd.

(BRIE WELTON / iNFOnews.ca)

The march ended in front of the Kamloops RCMP Detachment, where the crowd gathered to cheer and listen to several individuals share their experiences with racism. 

To contact a reporter for this story, email Brie Welton or call (250) 819-3723 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

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