Activism Over the Years
One of the good things about America is the willingness of the populace to stand up against what they feel is injustice. The right of the populace to gather and make their voice heard to elected officials, as well as to those who may be unaware of issues, is one of the hallmarks of American culture.
What I have found amazing his how some of the protest marches I photographed predate some of the strongest issues that are plaguing our country today. In 2012, students at SUNY Oswego brought the campus together for the Any Hoodie March for Trayvon Martin. While Martin wasn't a victim of police violence, this image of the police (which are required during large gatherings on campus), was striking. It became even more striking in the wake of Michael Brown, John Crawford, Tamir Rice, Philando Castille, Eric Garner, Sandra Bland, and many other victims of extra judicial violence.
Sometimes it feels hopeless, especially when we look at the politics of our nation. But what keeps me inspired is that whenever I attend one of these rallies, the protesters are from all racial backgrounds and all age groups. People still care.
Activism takes many forms-including awareness raising activities. The National Victim's Run and Walk, developed to honor murdered college student Amy Willard, takes place all over the country, including on college campuses.
The Clothesline Project, which originated in Massachusetts in 1990, provides a voice to those who have been ravaged by sexual violence.
I don't know what the future will bring with regards to the right of the American people to gather in protest. It would appear that our government no longer values this as a right that should be afforded to the electorate. However, I do not believe that what is now a right, which may turn into civil disobedience punishable by the law, will cease. The American people want to and will be heard.
