The pro-Palestinian protest in downtown Asheville city, all county and some city offices have been closed.
The rally, organized by the Party for Socialism and Liberation – WNC, is part of a nationwide effort to demand an end to the Israeli campaign of violence against Palestine.
By 4 p.m., approximately 100 people had gathered in the city, chanting slogans for “Free Palestine.”
Buncombe County and Asheville city offices downtown will close early on Thursday, citing “reports of scheduled protesting.”
Downtown facilities will close at 2 pm. They will reopen after the Veterans Day holiday on Monday, November 13.
The services include elections, planning, permits, register of deeds, family justice center, tax office, health and human services, and county administrative offices.
City Hall, City Municipal Building, Public Works, Parking Services Building, and 29 Haywood Street in Asheville, all listed as Google public restrooms, will close at 2 pm.
According to officials, the Library Board meeting scheduled for November 9 has also been canceled.
Thursday’s press release from the county did not specify the nature of the protest. However, the Party for Socialism and Liberation – WNC Facebook page shared a post at 3 pm calling to “shut it down for Palestine” in Pack Square Park West.
