People came together during the demonstrations following George Floyd’s death to bring attention to the racial inequity, police brutality, and other problems that exist in our society. For many others, including myself, this served as a wake-up call to the realities of the situation. It was a potent instance of togetherness that demonstrated how we might cooperate to address these issues and advance the creation of a society that is more equitable and egalitarian.
As opposed to considering the protests as a peaceful exercise of free expression, the police frequently responded to them unfairly and excessively. To frighten protesters, they employed military-style equipment and even sharpshooters. This use of force is alarming and raises concerns about police abuse.
The fact that police frequently escape punishment for their violent or inappropriate behavior is a major problem. This must be altered. It’s also alarming that the FBI has classified individuals as “Black identity extremists” and treated them like terrorists, which just serves to perpetuate prejudicial perceptions and marginalize weaker communities even more. Furthermore, it’s alarming that cops frequently use excessive force while responding to protesters, often using helicopters and dozens of officers.
It’s inspiring to see so many people come together to demand change and hold those in
power accountable. Nonviolent protest can be a powerful force for change. However,
progress has been slow, and it’s disheartening that systemic injustices still cause so much
suffering for so many people. Derrick Ingram’s story is only one illustration of the ongoing injustices that exist despite the efforts of several activists and organizations. In the end, it’s critical to keep advocating for change and working toward a better future for everyone.
Even if progress could be slow, every step that is taken in the right direction is a stride forward. We must remain vigilant in holding those in positions of authority accountable, demanding justice and equality from them, and working to build a more just and equitable society for all. Black women learned how to fight back against the physical abuse they were receiving. Some women used clandestine tactics of resistance, such purposefully miscarrying or refusing to have children, to fight the exploitation of their capacity to procreate.
Black women are challenging the manner in which their bodies are repressed through political activism and organizing. Black women’s perspectives and demands are emphasized by organizations like BLM and the Movement for Black Lives since they are frequently disregarded in conversations about racial justice. To combat the mechanisms that uphold white supremacy and dominate Black Women’s Bodies, they are fighting for crucial causes including economic equality, reproductive justice, and police reform.
Protests have been a tactic for solving racial issues for many years. Do you think that they are working or beneficial to making a difference in the way Blacks are treated? Should something be done differently?