Oscar Grant

I used to be really naive about the po-po. But they really scare the bejesus out of me and are liable (able) to do anything. Murder innocent people (usually black men and other men of color) and get away with it, so the cycle continues. Even when you know how to act with the police, sometimes playing by their rules doesn't ensure a positive or safe outcome. I've come to see, experience and realize how important it is to protect and look out for each other.

We may have Obama but black men are still public enemy #1. Oscar Grant is more proof. This is happening too often in our cities around the country. Below is a post from RaceWire (thanks JSmooth, Dopegirlfresh and SuperHussy for sharing), along with Oakland's own Davey D on Breakdown FM with firsthand accounts and an interview with John Burris, the lawyer representing the Grant family for their suit against BART.

Davey D and Breakdown FM: http://odeo.com/episodes/23838664

5 Things You Can Do Right Now About the Oscar Grant Shooting

Oscar Grant, an unarmed man, was killed by an Oakland police officer. Here are five things (compiled by Makani Themba-Nixon) that you should do right now to respond to the senseless death of this 22 year old Black man. Video footage of the shooting recently surfaced.

1. Digg the story so that the national media can pick up on it

2. Contact BART Director Carole Ward Allen and demand that 1) the officers involved be taken off duty without pay and charged and fully prosecuted; 2) there be an independent investigation of the shooting that includes a review of training and hiring practices; and 3) BART establish an independent residents’ review board for the police Call her at 510-464-6095 or email the BART Directors at BoardofDirectors@bart.gov

3. Call the BART police to complain about the officers’ conduct and demand immediate action: Internal Affairs: Sergeant David Chlebowski 510.464.7029,dchlebo@bart.gov; Chief of Police: Gary Gee 510.464.7022, ggee@bart.gov

Call them toll free at 877.679.7000 and press the last four digits of the phone number you wish to reach.

4. Talk it up on your blogs, networks and talk radio shows (call Michael Baisden 877-6BADBOY or Rev. Al, etc. to get this on the national radar)

5. Stay tuned for other actions, protests, etc., especially if you are in the Bay.

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