Ferguson, MO – It is shortly after midnight, Aug. 15, and easily at least a thousand members of the Ferguson community have taken the streets tonight in what it seems like a atmosphere of celebration. Residents said that they are overjoyed that the police, at least tonight, have withdrawn their militarized force from their streets.

West Florissant Avenue, the street that police have used as their point of siege towards the Ferguson community, was filled with bumper-to bumper-traffic as cars honked at each in other in a festive atmosphere. This reporter talked to residents who said that the lack of military style police presence was great, with younger residents stating that the streets no longer belongs to the police but now is in the hands of the community.

The large crowd chanted, “Hands up, don't shoot!” with members of the New Black Panther Party directing busy traffic. Tonight was a night of relief for Ferguson residents. However, they know that getting justice for Michael Brown is gonna require them staying out in the streets and demanding it.

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