NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) – A peaceful vigil produced a powerful moment between protesters and National Guard members Monday night.

The Vigil for Black Lives started at Legislative Plaza at 6 p.m. and eventually made its way past the caution tape and up the Tennessee State Capitol steps, where some legislators joined the group.

In a powerful moment, the Tennessee National Guard laid down their shields at the invitation of community activist Justin Jones.

“We want to invite these law enforcement, these troopers to lay down your swords and shields and join us,” Jones said.

The guards, who were standing in a line in front of the capitol, put their shields on the ground as the crowd cheered.

“The National Guard has shown us with their actions that they know we are not terrorists,” Jones said. “We are the citizens of Tennessee.”

Rep. Mike Stewart (D) attended the rally and said he was moved by the National Guard’s actions.

“I don’t think anybody who was standing there when the National Guard laid down their shields could not be completely moved, and be proud as Americans to see our system working exactly the way it’s supposed to work.”