A gathering was held in Halifax on Sunday as part of a larger group of Black Lives Matter demonstrations across North America demanding justice in the wake of recent police shootings in the United States.

"White, black, pink, purple, there are bad and good in everything,” said activist Michael Davies-Cole. “People have to understand that in Canada. This is not just an American problem."

The group gathered as part of United We Stand, which are ceremonies happening on both sides of the border. Rather than a protest, the small group elected to hold a traditional aboriginal sharing circle.

"Being with folks in a way that is non aggressive, and a way that we can share and tell our stories in a way that is safe for us, and also a way that folks can engage in a meaningful conversation," said co-organizer Jade Byard Peek.

The event was held on the two-year anniversary of the death of Eric Garner, who died after being choked by New York City police.

Garner's death led to protests across the United States.

"The significance of that moment was people decided enough was enough,” said Davies-Cole. “Where do you draw the line between policing action and policing murder? Where do you draw the line between what's right and what's wrong?"

"If we can't hold and symbolize the people we have lost, we can't hold onto anything because they're a part of our ancestry, they're a part of our history and a part of our growth," said Peek.

The group says while the issues that sparked the movement aren't as prevalent in Canada, there are still problems to be addressed.

"We need solidarity across the country,” said Peek. “We know in Toronto there is a huge amount of police brutality. That is very similar to the United States"

Halifax Regional Police Chief Jean-Michel Blais admits there is still work to be done.

"We have a very robust response, as well as a proactive approach when it comes down to working with the African Nova Scotian community, and for all communities for that matter,” said Chief Blais. “Where there is a need, a member of HRP is there working with them very closely."

Davies-Cole says a lot of it falls back on proper education.

"Before you say ‘all lives matter’ or ‘you've got jobs now, what's your issue?’ educate yourself on what's going on. Take five seconds to walk in those other shoes.”

With files from CTV Atlantic’s Allan April.