Seems like just yesterday and 10 years ago all at the same time. Regardless of how you feel about the methods, the people of Ferguson (and STL) brought attention to a systematic issue that has been unnecessarily taking lives for decades. I am so thankful for the people of Ferguson/STL, and thankful that 365 days later, the movement still lives, and now all over the country.
What’s most unbelievable is how many hashtags we’ve had to create for unarmed, black people killed by police just over this past year. Unbelievable. But maybe now, a year and so many names (people) later, more people can see and understand the issue.
Today, I’m thinking of #MikeBrown and saying a special prayer for his family, and all families that have lost loved ones to police brutality. I hope they can find some peace in knowing that change will come from their sacrifice.
It’s been a long, challenging year. I never imagined myself being a part of a movement like this….protesting, volunteering, blogging, presenting to staff/students, none of that. But I’m so thankful for living in St. Louis, and for the passion I’ve developed for eliminating oppression.
I hope this movement has taught many empathy, and that it continues to do so. Just because something is not your reality, doesn’t mean it’s not someone’s reality. And just knowing that it’s someone else’s reality, is (should be) enough reason to care.
The march indeed continues.
Aleidra Allen 