The Black Lives Matter Network advocates for dignity, justice, and
respect
In the last few days, this country witnessed the recorded murders of
Alton Sterling and Philando Castile at the hands of police, the
latest victims in this country’s failed policing system. As we
have done for decades, we marched and protested to highlight the
urgent need to transform policing in America, to call for justice,
transparency and accountability, and to demand that Black Lives
Matter.
In Dallas, many gathered to do the same, joining in a day of action
with friends, family, and co-workers. Their efforts were cut short
when a lone gunman targeted and attacked 11 police officers, killing
five. This is a tragedy–both for those who have been impacted by
yesterday’s attack and for our democracy. There are some who would
use these events to stifle a movement for change and quicken the
demise of a vibrant discourse on the human rights of Black
Americans. We should reject all of this.
Black activists have raised the call for an end to violence, not an
escalation of it. Yesterday’s attack was the result of the actions
of a lone gunman. To assign the actions of one person to an entire
movement is dangerous and irresponsible. We continue our efforts to
bring about a better world for all of us.
July 6, 2016