RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Thousands flooded the surrounding streets of the Capitol Monday for a gun-rights rally, however, some locals in the area say the roads are the cleanest they’ve seen in quite some time.

There’s a reason for that, says Matthew Keisling, a protester who made sure that once he shared his message, he went above and beyond to protect it.

“I’ve been in the area when there have been other protests and demonstrations and people leave a lot of trash behind and it waters down the message,” Keisling said.

Matthew Keisling

MORE LOBBY DAY COVERAGE:

Advocates told 8News they made sure to clean up after the rally because they felt leaving trash behind “represents the group and the movement very poorly.”

Locals in the city appreciated the gesture, even if it was unexpected.

“They picked everything up and made it look nice,” said Richmond resident Jack Hamilton. “It was really good for them to do that and it looks a lot better and good job.”

Jack Hamilton

Around 22,000 pro-gun activists took the streets of downtown Richmond. The protest was peaceful, with most of the controversy stemming from the fact that participants cleaned up after themselves.

“There’s just cans and you know boxes and trash on the corners and like sidewalks but it looks a lot better,” Hamilton said. “It really does.”

LATEST STORIES: