Reopen Meck, a local offshoot of the Reopen NC movement, is planning a protest in uptown Charlotte on Friday, May 1st, according to WCNC-TV. They are demanding that all Mecklenburg County businesses be allowed to reopen.

In recent weeks, Reopen NC has protested Governor Roy Cooper’s stay-at-home order and closure of non-essential businesses at the state capitol in Raleigh. The group claims that the coronavirus data does not justify the damage being done to the state’s economy and families. Law enforcement agencies have been reporting increases in domestic violence and drug abuse cases over the past month.

Related: Mecklenburg County is Removing Some Restrictions Starting April 29th

Many “reopen” events around the country have been met with opposition from healthcare workers who say it’s too soon for a return to business as usual. In a news conference on Tuesday (4/28), Governor Cooper said the state has seen some flattening in its coronavirus data, but urged North Carolinians to continue abiding the executive order.

Friday’s Reopen Meck protest will begin at 12:00 PM at the intersection of Trade St. and Tryon St. Participants are encouraged to drive through the streets of uptown Charlotte. If protesters get out of their vehicles, they’re asked to wear masks and gloves, as well as follow social distancing guidelines.