In preparation for a White Lives Matter rally in Shelbyville, businesses announced they plan to close up shop.
Many businesses displayed signs informing customers of the shut down. Others have signs that say 'Boo to Hate' on their storefronts. Nearly every business in close proximity with the protest plans to close for the event.
"There has been just too much violence and people coming in from who knows where to protest and people are angry all over the country. We just don't want it here. So, we're going to be closed. I wish all of Shelbyville were closed," said Dardie Fannin, owner of The Coffee Break in the square. The front door of the business has a sign stating they will be closed on the 28th.
The protest is planned for 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday. Police have a plan in place to handle the crowds and are closing down two streets and multiple intersections for the rally.
Lane Parkway will be closed from North Main Street to Regent Drive. North Cannon Boulevard will be closed from Holland Street to North Main Street as well.
At Big Springs Shopping center, the story is the same. Businesses have decided to shut down. The police department asked businesses there what their plan would be and many agreed to close for the event, which corners the shopping center.
"Our town is not for negativity," said Kiera Berry Hill, employee of Triple A Treasures. "Don't come here for this. Don't do it anywhere, it's just spreading hate."
Berry Hill says she plans to be on the counter protester side of the rally. Police have set parking areas for counter protesters at Thomas Magnet School.
