Last night, #BlackLivesMatter activist and politician DeRay McKesson was arrested alongside 30 other people during a march through Baton Rouge, La. McKesson and many others were on the scene protesting the excessive force used by Police during the shooting of Alton Sterling just days earlier.
Shortly after the news broke that McKesson had been taken into custody, a whole host of actors, athletes, and other prominent figures took to social media to express their dismay.
@deray thinking about you my brother and sending love and prayers to you and everyone fighting for justice. #FreeDeRay
I don't usually curse, but this is some serious bullsh#t here - police arresting this man @Deray for NOTHING at all! https://t.co/QS7Wd35JDv
I wish people would protect the First Amendment with the same fervor as they have the Second Amendment. #FreeDeray
How else would you describe the reporters from @WWNO and @WAFB who were arrested? Details: https://t.co/f3oLZVnZEE https://t.co/ldxfKNnQdv
Free DERAY !!! pic.twitter.com/OBxRMBbnA6
Free Deray and pray for him because cops in Baton Rouge not playing fair. https://t.co/lkaRNzah09
Unlawfully arrested in Louisiana last night during a peaceful protest. @deray @BRPD #FreeDeray pic.twitter.com/0KiOl27ijC
#FreeDeRay & free all who were unlawfully arrested last night NOW!!! https://t.co/322gxHOXCB
I just donated to #FreeDeray and the other 100 protesters arrested unlawfully in Baton Rouge. https://t.co/vwA4vFT3Az
Eventually, a phone number began circulating that people were urged to contact to ensure the release of McKesson and the 30 people who were also in custody.
Shortly after that, a crowd-funding campaign was started for bail money.
Money is being raised for bail for @deray and other protesters in Baton Rouge. No word on when they'll be released https://t.co/G1C0P1OOYr
