by: WOODTV.com staff
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Organizers are planning an "American Patriot" rally against Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s stay-home order will be held at Rosa Park Circle in Grand Rapids Monday.
Monday's event follows after several rallies in Lansing to reopen the state, and the event will mark the first rally of this kind in West Michigan. Organizers are calling it the American Patriot Rally — Sheriffs Speak Out.
Monday's protest is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. on Monday. Organizers are not requiring that attendees wear masks. They say they are encouraging people to bring American flags only. They also say they are expecting some militia groups to be in attendance.
It's expected the protest will bring several out-of-state speakers. Organizers say Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf is also expected to speak.
Officials with Grand Rapids Police say they too will be a strong presence at the protest, but say they are in no way participating or associated with the event. They say they will be there only to ensure safety.
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