Hey all, especially white people: Let's be mindful of the threads posted about the Chauvin trial.

[WhiskeyGrinder]

Every word of testimony, every question, every direction from the judge forces us all to relive whatever trauma each of us carries from that day and the weeks afterward, and for Black people, that trauma is a deep and cumulative one. Opening up DU and having to wade through these threads:

“If Floyd was already handcuffed and in the car, why did they drag him out?”

“About this drug user bullshit”

“I predict Chauvin trial will end up a mistrial…they only have 2 alternates.”

“Prosecution just showed Chauvin take his body camera off”

“Damn killer cop Chauvin sitting with no emotion”

“If Chauvin Was Even The Least Bit Likeable, They Might Put Him On The Stand”

“Fact check needed. I thought George Floyd said I can’t breathe 22 times”

“CNN: EMT’s had to push Chauvin off George Floyds neck.”

“Everybody felt guilty except the cops.”

...adds to that trauma.

I get it, this is General Discussion. People like to discuss things. Unfortunately, a lot of these comments can come across as if we're discussing something academically or dispassionately, are hoping to score political points, or expect nothing to change. That's not helpful to anyone, and it's especially hurtful to Black readers.

A single thread for each day of the trial might be helpful, in any case.

[PortTack]

1. Thank you!! Just put yourself in their shoes and be mindful..very mindful

[qazplm135]

2. I can't speak for all my people...

but as one of those Black people, I have no issues with any of those threads. This isn't something to tip toe through. It's to be confronted and addressed.

[JI7]

4. It is imporant for white people to understand these issues

and do their part to bring change for the better.

[qazplm135]

5. I mean

all of those threads seem to be showing that to me. It's not like they are doing anything negative in those threads.

[ecstatic]

6. +1. It is a very tough read sometimes, but

some of the topics need to be addressed. It would really upset me to see any chauvin apologists or anyone attempting to criminalize the victim, George Floyd. Hopefully we're all on the same page about that.

[stillcool]

3. I think it's too big

and too real.

[cally]

7. Well, I'm traumatized seeing this testimony and seeing these videos

And I’m a white middle aged woman. I’ve been thinking a lot about how much worse this week is for Black people. I think we need to be extra kind and supportive this week as this is traumatic. Thanks for posting the reminder

[Croney]

9. Yes.