2014 was a time of hardship for African Americans as the deaths of Mike Brown, Beavercreek’s John Crawford and Eric Gardner, rock the community. With these actions came the saying #BlackLivesMatter that went from the online media to a phrase used by protesters and activists all across the nation.
The slogan, which let everyone know that black lives are just as important as anyone else’s, got support from countries like Japan, England and South America, but was used most in protest.
Protests and demonstrations have been strong from both sides, with some saying that the people involved were responsible for their own actions and neither side weighing on their opinions.
According to RT.com, demonstrators in St. Louis tried to force their way into their local police precinct, demanding that the police be removed from power.
In New York, about 100 protesters gathered in Times Square during the celebration of the New Year and were overwhelmed by said crowd.
In Boston Copley square, activists and protesters staged what is described as a “die-in”, where the protesters lie down and pretend to be dead. Protesters carried signs that read “Black Lives Matter”.
The Clarion had the opportunity to ask Sinclair students about the use of the hashtag and what Black Lives Matter means to them.
“Although I don’t condone the shootings of innocent people, when protesters begin rioting and destroying public property in retaliation, you are pretty much asking for it” said Alyssa Copley.
Caleb Walker said “#BlackLivesMatter is a strong saying, and it needs to be known all over the world”.
“It’s not a black or white thing. It’s a police thing” said Carey Carver.
“It’s not right what the police did but when it comes to rioting and feeling threatened, police have to defend themselves”.
“Simply put, if black folks don’t unify, they will die” said Jermaine Tinsley.
“We need to stand together all the time instead of just when a tragedy strikes. It shouldn’t just be black lives because all lives matter.”