Friends,
The murder trial of Derek Chuavin is a traumatic time for many of us. Though the need for police reform can not be overstated, it is also important that we take care of ourselves. Remember: you are not obligated to consume all the media surrounding this trial, especially if it is disturbing your ability to take care of yourself.
We know what we’re up against when citizens call the police on the police based on what they are witnessing in their communities. But organizing doesn’t mean exposing yourself to every terrifying detail. Sometimes organizing means knowing when to be still and allow that period of rest and reflection to ultimately energize our movement.
What this trial is revealing is what we have long known:
The American police force is a toxic murderous organization which needs to be defunded and reformed. Both the ways in which police are allowed to brutalize, and the excuses with which they justify their brutality are things we need to face and find solutions for.
Our communities do not need targets on their back from a state-sanctioned brutality machine. They need to be invested in: economically, politically, and culturally.
We need a government which stops its centuries-old habit of violently oppressing us, and begins to repair that irreparable damage with real tangible investments in our communities.
And that begins now.
For Future Generations,
Rev Yearwood
Founder and President
Hip Hop Caucus
Olympic Climate Action 