Florida activists train in Tallahassee for 40 days of action

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - A group of activists in the Sunshine State is getting ready for 40 days of protests, marches and other demonstrations in the Capital City.

Monday night, the Poor People's Campaign of Florida trained anyone interested in getting involved.

Around a dozen residents spent time learning about what rights they have while protesting, as well as songs and chants that are part of the movement.

Organizers also encouraged using art as a way to illustrate their message in a compelling but tasteful way.

The movement addresses poverty, systemic racism, militarism, and ecological devastation.

"We want to make sure people are trained in nonviolent protest, as well as learning the songs, which are really important to the movement," said Donna Cotterell, a theomusicologist with the Poor People's Campaign of Florida. "If you remember, the Civil Rights Movement -- there was lots of songs, so we're going to fill the room with song, and then, that will be taken out to the streets."

The 40 days of action will start next Monday, May 14 at 2 p.m. at the state capitol.