The conviction of Derek Chauvin today is an exhilarating, wonderful, thrilling event---but it

[Atticus]

shouldn't be. In a just system, this conviction would not be a "pleasant surprise" or a "relief"; it would be EXPECTED.

Was this a "clear-cut" case? A "no-brainer"? Of course it was!

But, there have been countless prior cases that were just as clear cut that resulted in infuriating and transparently unjust acquittals. In this instance, there were videos and witnesses because people were willing to step up and get involved.

We ARE called upon to be "keepers" of ALL our brothers and sisters. That sometimes requires us to anger the powers that be and it sometimes requires us to give voice to our righteous indignation.

Whenever we are witnesses to injustice and stand silent, we PARTICIPATE in that injustice.

Whenever we allow racists to spew their vile ignorance without calling them out for it, we CONDONE their hateful words.

We must be better than what we have been.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

1. Word, my dear Atticus. ♥

[comradebillyboy]

2. This is a huge step forward in holding the police accountable.

One can't minimize the importance of this verdict. The blue wall of silence is showing some major cracks today.

[TheProle]

4. Yes!

The blue wall of silence is showing some major cracks today.

This is the crux of the matter.

[FakeNoose]

3. Let this be end of police displays of willful misbehavior

... with impunity.

In other words let them be held responsible for their actions just as all citizens should be.

[LakeArenal]

5. So many not filmed injustices.

Edit: a pundit reminded us that Rodney King’s beating was filmed and still police were given a pass. Thank gawd we have turned a corner.