I’ve protested the death of my father, Eric Garner, for more than a year

[FlatBaroque]

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/dec/09/erica-garner-conflict-can-destroy-movements-fight-the-system?CMP=share_btn_tw

On 17 July 2014, New York Police Department officer Daniel Pantaleo killed my father, Eric Garner. More than 11 minutes of video footage show Officer Pantaleo placing him in an illegal chokehold, and people all over the world soon learned my father’s final words: “I can’t breathe”. Faced with yet another incontrovertible act of police brutality, angered viewers formed resistance groups – practically overnight – to demand justice.

Today, the only person ever charged with a crime connected to my father’s death is Ramsey Orta, the man who recorded it all. After a controversial investigation, a grand jury failed to indict Officer Pantaelo for my father’s death. Since then, I’ve only fought harder for justice but, as the injustices pile up, I wonder if my fellow fighters will stay united long enough to win.

[Faux pas]

1. Kickin'

[wildeyed]

2. Eyes on the prize.

The police are killing our people – that’s reason enough not to fight amongst ourselves. No movement is immune to conflict, but it’s up to every last person on the side of justice to make the decision to move forward together. We build relationships with other activists and supporters, take the streets and risk arrest because we’re fighting for a world that truly values our lives.