Ask Christa: Justice for Michael Brown

"You haven't shared anything about the killing of Mike Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. What's your opinion?"
Let me first say that things are happening whether you see them or not. I'm one of those people who doesn't share much on social media but I was planning on speaking on his death and the protests once I'd gathered my thoughts.

I'm emotionally exhausted, almost a week after Michael Brown's death. I'm saddened that another black teen was murdered.  I'm highly disturbed at the media for portraying the protests as mob-like and violent. I'm disgusted that there are those who are trying to justify that his appearance or the fact that he ran away from the cop shooting at him prompted his death.

Michael Brown

Whenever I look at pictures of Michael Brown or the countless black men slain by law enforcement officers or "scared" white people, I see my brother. I see my cousins, friends, neighbors, classmates, etc who could be the next target.

Police Protest: Then and Now

It doesn't matter what you wear, what you drive, where you live, what college you attended, how nice you are, volunteer experience, etc. If you are a black man living in America, you are automatically profiled. And there's nothing that I nor he can do to stop the fear and the actions that ensue.


"Well maybe blacks should stop killing other blacks. Then others would take black men murders more seriously."

No. The myth of "black on black crime" is propaganda used to spotlight blacks as monstrous and animalistic. You never hear of "white on white crime" although it exists.

This is how racists shift the focus from racism. They get you fired up on issues that exist within the community, often times leading to arguing and fighting.

Racism is still alive and well today in the year of our Lord 2014. And the people are tired. But instead of standing around being afraid, they've taken to the streets in protest.

Michael Brown Protesters in Times Square NYC, 8/14/14

Now, you may not agree with why we are protesting police injustice, racism, and brutality. But it isn't up to you do determine how people react when they've been pushed too far. Bringing up overused Martin Luther King Jr and Ghandi quotes on peace and turning the other cheek will fall on deaf ears because we will not be silenced. Open your eyes and witness the oppressed protest their oppression.


I believe in this revolution that I'm seeing. I believe in the power of the people's voice. I will never forget these feelings of pride and unity, not just from blacks, but from other races around the world who stand with us.

And to all of those waiting for someone (and celebrities) to lead you in the revolution: go and lead your damn self. You have it within yourself to be a leader. As my friend so plainly stated, "Stop waiting on a savior and get to saving."

Rest in Power Michael Brown, John Crawford, Eric Garner, Wendell Allen, Trayvon Martin, Renisha McBride, Oscar Grant, Sean Bell, and the countless others who've lost their lives to senseless murders. We will never forget you.

Peace.