Police Brutality

In the wake of Floyd’s death, promises of police reform swept across the country.

And yet two years later, the number of people who have died during interactions with police hit a 10-year high in 2022, at 1,186 deaths, according to the website Mapping Police Violence.

African Americans accounted for 26 percent of those deaths, though Blacks represent only 13 percent of the US population.

Police brutality refers to the excessive or unwarranted use of force by police officers, especially when it results in physical harm or death. In America, the issue of police brutality has been a topic of ongoing public debate and social justice activism, particularly in recent years. A few prominent groups, which emerged after the killing of George Floyd in 2020, have brought increased attention to the issue. Reforms aimed at reducing police brutality have been proposed at the local, state, and federal levels, but progress has been slow and inconsistent.

Police brutality against African Americans is a persistent and widespread issue in the United States. Studies and data show that Black Americans are disproportionately affected by police violence compared to other racial groups. This has been a long-standing issue rooted in systemic racism and the history of racial discrimination in the country. Incidents of police brutality against Black Americans have sparked widespread protests.

Police brutality can affect anyone, but certain communities are disproportionately impacted. These communities include:

1. Black Americans: Studies and data show that Black Americans are disproportionately affected by police violence compared to other racial groups.
2. People of color: People of color, especially those living in low-income communities, are more likely to experience police brutality.
3. People experiencing homelessness or mental health issues: These individuals are at a higher risk of being targeted and subjected to police violence.
4. Youth and minors: Juveniles and minors are also at risk of police brutality, especially in school settings and during protests.
5. Protesters and activists: People exercising their First Amendment rights, such as peaceful protesters, are also at risk of police violence.

It’s important to note that police brutality can occur to anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, and it is a widespread issue that affects communities across the country.