Hundreds march Milwaukee's streets together, but did not share same concerns

MILWAUKEE -- There were plenty of fireworks outside of the Republican presidential debate on Tuesday evening. As many as 1,200 people took to the streets of Milwaukee to protest everything from $15 an hour to pension reform.

The journey of the protesters began for most at City Hall -- just a few blocks from the Milwaukee Theatre. While they marched together, it was very clear they did not all share the same voice or concerns.

Protesters in downtown Milwaukee

"America has a race problem they trying to sweep it under the rug, and it needs to be addressed," said Vaughn Mayes.

Mayes says the American flag no longer represents him.

"It really stands for unity, and really covers everybody, and it covers everyone as Americans, and I can't respect that," Mayes said.

By the time the massive group lined up at City Hall, their voices also shouted about immigration reform, education, Black Lives Matter and corporate greed.

Protesters in downtown Milwaukee

Along the five-block journey, the protesters were joined by puppets of the Republican candidates. At the Milwaukee Theatre, more protesters merged into the group.

From funding non-profits...

"We're out here because Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of  death in America," said one protester.

To marijuana.

"Wisconsin is just really outdated in their marijuana laws and it looks like we might be the last to legalize it," said another.

They were different groups with different messages -- all hoping those inside the Milwaukee Theatre were listening.

Protesters in downtown Milwaukee