In this blog post, we’ll discuss racial discrimination and racism in the criminal justice system. The story that I will be using will be Eric Garner’s story, which most of you have probably heard. It was part of what sparked the Black Lives Matter movement. This story highlights the need for systemic changes in policing and criminal justice to ensure that Black lives are valued and protected.
“I can’t breathe.” Those were the last words of Eric Garner. He was an African American who died in July 2014 during an arrest by NYC police officers. The NYPD officers approached him on suspicion of selling untaxed cigarettes. When Eric refused to be handcuffed, one of the police officers put him in a chokehold, which is actually a banned action because it restricts airflow to the neck. Eric suffered from asthma, so he was telling the police officer he couldn’t breathe, but the officer continued to hold him down. Eventually, Eric lost consciousness.
After the event, he was taken to the hospital where the doctor said his cause of death was “compression of neck, compression of chest and prone positioning during physical restraint by police”. This whole incident led to protests and calls for police reform.
This story is an example of systemic racism and discrimination in the criminal justice system in the US. It brought back to light issues with race and policing that have been a concern for communities of color in the country.
One of many examples that demonstrates discrimination was the fact that he was arrested based on the suspicion of selling untaxed cigarretes. This shows how low-level offenses are unfairly enforced in Black communities. Another is how Eric Garners death was because of a police officer using a chokehold. This shows the excessive force used against Black people by law enforcement and is an example of how black people are more likely to be victims of police violence and brutality.
Lastly, Erics death and the lack of accountability for the officers involved in his death show the lack of accountability for police officer who use excessive force, particular;y against black people. This story represents racial discrimination and racism in the criminal justice system.
I recommend you get informed about all types of discrimination and racism to take action and see how we can help. See you in the next blog/story. Have a fantastic rest of your day or night.