Nicola Sturgeon has offered her support to the Black Lives Matter movement but warned Scots planning outdoor protests they could pose a health risk.
The First Minister said today it was understandable that people in Scotland should want to share their anger at the shocking scenes in America which led to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week.
More than 1,000 people have already expressed an interest on social media in attending a Black Lives Matter protest in Glasgow on June 7.
But strict social distancing guidelines in place to fight the spread of Covid-19 call for Scots from different households to remain two metres apart - and not meet anyone outdoors from more than one household.
Speaking at her daily media briefing in Edinburgh today, the SNP leader said: "I have total solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement. I am also a fervent supporter - and throughout my life a frequent participant - in peaceful protest.
"So I absolutely believe people have the right to make their voices heard at times like this, when we all look on in horror at scenes in the United States.
"Obviously right now, unfortunately and regrettably, large gatherings of people could pose a risk to health and indeed to life. That's the case whether that's a peaceful protest, a football match, or any other gathering where large numbers of people are coming together in close proximity.
"What I would say to those who want to protest, and I say this as an ally, is we need to find ways of allowing people to make their voices heard - but to do so in a way that is safe and is not putting people protesting or wider communities at risk.
"We're happy at national level, and I know local authorities will be happy, to have discussions on that."
Dad-of-two George Floyd died after a white officer knelt on his neck for several minutes in Minneapolis on Monday.
The 46-year-old was being arrested after he allegedly tried to use a fake $20 bill at a corner shop, while police claim he was "under the influence" in the driver's seat of a car.
A video of the incident shows Mr Floyd begging: “Please, I can’t breathe” and “Don’t kill me”.
