In recent years, we’ve witnessed heartbreaking stories of young people of color falling victim to police violence. The alarming frequency of these incidents has become impossible to ignore. While the issue of police brutality is not new, the growing number of cases involving unarmed individuals, particularly young Black men and women, is deeply troubling.
Just this week in Minnesota, near the site of George Floyd’s tragic death, another young life was lost. 20-year-old Marcus Johnson was shot during what should have been a routine traffic stop. Officer Sarah Lee resigned shortly after the incident and was charged with manslaughter three days later. It’s reported that there was confusion regarding a court date, which led to a warrant being issued for Marcus. His vehicle had expired plates and an air freshener hanging from the rearview mirror, which can be considered a legitimate reason for a traffic stop under Minnesota law. The ACLU of Minnesota expressed concerns over the pretextual nature of such stops, which often target communities of color.
In Chicago, two additional young lives were cut short. 18-year-old Dylan Carter was involved in an alleged theft at a local Home Depot. During the incident, he drew a weapon and shot a security officer who attempted to detain him. When police arrived, a shootout ensued, resulting in Dylan’s death. His mother mourned his loss, reflecting on his struggles with ADHD and the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
Another victim, 13-year-old Leo Ramirez, was shot by police in a neighborhood close to his home. Officers were responding to a report of gunfire and mistakenly believed Leo was armed. After a foot chase, he was shot in the chest. Leo had aspirations of becoming a police officer himself, making his death even more poignant.
Lastly, 22-year-old Ethan Thompson was pursued by police when he allegedly brandished a weapon. He was shot multiple times and succumbed to his injuries. Ethan’s family expressed their grief, emphasizing the pain of losing a loved one to police violence.
According to The Washington Post, 991 individuals were shot and killed by police in the past year. In the first three months of 2021 alone, 213 people were shot, with 30 of them being Black. These statistics are infuriating and should compel us to advocate for police reform and education. When the narrative shifts to blaming victims for their own deaths, we must recognize the systemic issues at play. Officers must receive better training to navigate high-pressure situations without resorting to lethal force.
As a society, we are at a crossroads. The ongoing calls for justice, such as “Say Their Names,” have become exhausting. What we truly need is compassion, education, and a collective effort to value every life, irrespective of age or race. How can law enforcement evolve to safeguard lives rather than end them?
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In summary, the ongoing violence against young people of color by police is an urgent issue that demands attention and action. We must strive for a society that values all lives and seeks justice and reform in law enforcement practices.