Black Lives Matter
By: Alair Lewis
How it Started...
The hash-tag #blacklivesmatter started after Florida teen Trayvon Martin was shot to death by self-appointed neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman after a scuffle based on suspicion.
- Shot February 26, 2012
- Martin was visiting father in Sanford Flordia
- Was coming back from store with candy for brother
- Zimmerman thought Martin looked suspicious and ignored pursuit advice of police
After news of this got out black lives matter was started on Social Media to campaign against racism.
- Started by Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi
- helped encourage some to protest in favor of Martin and Family
Michael Brown
Freddie Gray and Being Arrested
Case of Michael Brown
On August 9, 2014 another unarmed teenager Michael Brown was shot by white police officer Darren Wilson.
- Blew of after this event becoming a rallying cry for many
- Encouraged the violent protests in Missouri
- Demonstrators flooded streets setting buildings and cars alight
- Heavily armed police resorted to throwing smoke and tear gas
- Set off more anger when said officer Wilson will not be indicted
Arrest to Death...Freddie Gray
- Was arrest for switchblade he didn't have
- Asked for inhaler but did not get one
Freddie Gray's arrest was illegal and broke many rules of the police department book. According to witnesses the police used a move called the "leg lock", while on the ground said he couldn't breath but officers did not resent using the force they were using. Being arrest and put in a police van, he was not fastened in seat a belt but put in head first laying on his stomach. During the ride, not only did the officers stop give Mr. Gray medical attention, they did not go to the station as directed. They maid numerous stop to help other officers. Witnesses say that Mr. Gray asked at least twice for help with not breathing but was ignored. After finally getting to the police station Mr. Gray was evacuated to a hospital getting there in critical condition tragically died a week later.
- Set off riots and protests in Baltimore
- Set many cars alight