While the trial started for two Steubenville High School student-athletes accused of raping another teen, a silent protest was being held for the alleged victim.

The gathering was organized by the group Anonymous, which has had other rallies at the courthouse since December.

In a memo that circulated on Tuesday, organizers called for a silent protest: no loudspeakers, no sound equipment and no chanting. As of noon, that was exactly the scene.

Most participants began arriving just after the 11 a.m. start time. Some had signs, while others donned masked and a few showed up as-is. There was a much smaller presence on Wednesday that previous rallies and the mood is not one of anger and vengeance.

Instead, it was peaceful, supportive and friendly. Many of the protesters could be seen hugging, holding hands and kissing through their masks.

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