The event began just like it has for the past 60 years. Families lined Binghamton streets, for the annual Columbus Day Tournament of Bands and Italian Festival.

"Its 60 years, so I'm not going to tell you how old I am, but I enjoyed it as a teenager,” said Columbus Day Grand Marshall Barbara Fiala. “I enjoyed it as a young mother. It was something we looked forward to is celebrating your heritage, and it's wonderful that it has continued for 60 years."

But the event came to a sudden stop. A self-proclaimed radical group known as Progressive Leaders of Tomorrow blocked the parade route as members formed a human shield.

"The people who have died in the jail matter,” screamed the protestors. “Columbus does not matter."

The group was protesting the Broome County Jail, where they say 10 inmates have died since 2011. PLOT leaders called for a reduction in the inmate population, as they prevented the parade from moving forward.

 

Four PLOT members were arrested and taken to jail. Mayor Rich David quickly took to the stage to address the crowd.

"We're not going to let anyone rain on our parade, no matter how much they try,” said Binghamton Mayor Rich David. “Enjoy your time at the downtown city lockup. We're getting this parade back started right now."

The parade eventually did get back underway as the remaining protestors cleared out.