If it is not obvious, I have been going through issues that have generated large protests (after going over protest and direct action in general) and giving some ideas for action.
The murder of George Floyd set off a wave of protests that were probably larger -- or at least more noticeable -- because of COVID.
However, it feels like that issue has receded from the public conscious.
I totally get that there is more focus on ICE now, and why. Regardless, it is still an important issue; the problem has not gone away.
Therefore, one of the first steps on this one is starting with more education.
I know I already did a whole blog post recommending Alex Karakatsanis' Copaganda, but I am going to recommend it again.
https://sporkful.blogspot.com/2025/05/must-read-copaganda-by-alec-karakatsanis.html
There were two important patterns in the book that must be addressed.
- Regardless of the police problems, somehow the solution always ends up being giving them more money.
- Police killings keep increasing.
George Floyd was killed in 2020, with protests going through 2023.
Number of people shot to death by police by year:
2020: 1020
2021: 1048
2022: 1097
2023: 1164
2024: 1173
https://www.statista.com/statistics/585152/people-shot-to-death-by-us-police-by-race/
Obviously, we don't have the 2025 numbers yet, but articles I have seen talk about increases, including one mentioning a "significant surge":
The other thing that strikes me is that is a very specific phrasing of the data; Freddie Gray or Sandra Bland would not be included, nor non-fatal injuries, nor Eric Garner or even George Floyd.
You know, police wanted bodycams before the public wanted them. They didn't think it would impede them, and it's hard to argue.
My point is that there is going to have to be a lot of rethinking to make any progress. Some of that is probably going to have to involve setting up alternative systems, which will go along with some of the upcoming anti-capitalist content. Have better resources for mental health and families in crisis. Have early intervention that is not punitive.
It won't be easy, especially under current circumstances, but we can be creative and loving and visionary.
Sometimes helping with one thing helps other things too.
So, don't give up, but do get more information. Remember that the more privileged you are, the bigger learning curve you are going to have.
But also, at least for Portland, there are organizations working on it. Checking in with them is a start.
If you are outside of the area, there should be organizations. If not, maybe it is time to start one.
One step at a time, with a good heart.
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