Tensions ran high between police and protesters in some cities, resulting in dozens of arrests in upstate New York, a handful of reported arrests elsewhere and scattered scuffles.
The Friday protests came a day after a sniper killed five police officers during a demonstration in Dallas.
Crowds gathered for an interfaith prayer vigil in Dallas to honor the fallen officers, CNN affiliate KTRK reported.
Black Lives Matter condemned the violence in the Dallas attack, calling it a tragedy not just for those affected but the nation as well.
Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, who attended the march, told CNN's Don Lemon that peaceful protesters in the city are practicing their First Amendment right.
"Our young people have an expectation that they will be treated fairly and justly," Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed said during protests in his city.
Young black people today have higher expectations, which is a sign of progress, he said.
"One of the things that is exciting about this protest tonight: Our young people have an expectation that they will be treated fairly and justly ... Every generation makes their demands."
"Their tolerance level is much different to perhaps my parents' generation or their parents generation." he added.
Reed said that while his father instructed him to go out of his way to be deferential and compliant in any encounters with police, "this generation has a different expectation."
"My dad grilled into me the lesson of driving a vehicle as as black man. Keep your hands on the steering wheel. Look forward and say, 'yes sir' or 'ma'am' to the police officer. Place your wallet in the seat beside you. Ask for permission to do anything because he was concerned about me living. He just wanted me to get home safe.
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