The 2010s was a decade of racial conflict that began with the second term of the country’s first Black president and will end with Donald Trump in office. In between, we witnessed unprecedented documentation of police brutality, starting with the murder of Trayvon Martin that culminated in the Ferguson riots and the birth of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Here is a list of just a few victims of police brutality who drove the conversation on violence against people of color in the 2010s.
Trayvon Martin (1995-2012)
Trayvon was born in Miami, Florida and played football beginning at age 5 and later developed a passion for Aerospace Technology at the Baker Aviation School. His interests included sports video games, volunteering at a local park, and listening to Tupac. He was shot and killed at age 17.
Consequences for the killer
George Zimmerman was charged with murder, but ultimately found not guilty.
How it changed the conversation
The murder of Trayvon Martin sparked the new civil rights movement, #BlackLivesMatter. The hoodie, Skittles, and Arizona tea became an iconic ensemble, especially amongst protestors.
Eric Garner (1970-2014)
Previously a horticulturist at the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, 43 year old Garner was a father of six and grandfather of three. Peacekeeper of his neighborhood in Staten Island, he could often be found playing chess or checkers with friends. Before his death, Garner said “I can’t breathe” several times.
Consequences for the killer
Daniel Pantaleo was not indicted by a grand jury, but was fired by the NYPD five years after Garner’s murder following a disciplinary hearing.
How it changed the conversation
“I can’t breathe” became associated with the Black Lives Matter movement, and was chanted by protestors and printed on T-shirts. His daughter Erica Garner became a prominent activist against police brutality, and died three years later from cardiac arrest.
Michael Brown (1996-2014)
From Ferguson, Missouri 18 year old Mike Brown was a recent high school graduate who often posted his music on Soundcloud. He was days away from starting technical school when he was shot and killed.
Consequences for the killer
Darren Wilson was not indicted as his murder case was deemed “self-defense”.
How it changed the conversation
Mike Brown’s death incited the Ferguson riots and had people chanting “hands up, don’t shoot” nationwide. In response to the protests, police violently militarized with tanks and tear gas, forcefully subduing protestors and onlookers.
Tamir Rice (2002-2014)
Just 12 years old when he was killed, Tamir Rice was from Cleveland, Ohio. He had a love for the arts, sports and was a talented drummer.
Consequences for the killer
Timothy Loehmann’s reason for murder was deemed justifiable by the FBI and he was not indicted. He was fired three years after Tamir’s death for alternate reasons.
How it changed the conversation
Tamir’s young age brought attention to how police and the media strip black children of their childhood, often criminalizing juveniles as adults.
Sandra Bland (1987-2015)
Sandra Bland was one of five sisters originally from Naperville, Illinois. An avid Black Lives Matter activist, Sandra graduated college with an agriculture degree, played in a marching band and spent time volunteering with elders.
Consequences for the killer
Sandra Bland’s death was ruled a suicide, however Brian Encinia was fired by the Texas Department of Public Safety for making false statements regarding her arrest.
How it changed the conversation
The aftermath of Sandra Bland’s death ignited the #SayHerName movement, which aimed to raise awareness for black women who have died at the hands of police.
Philando Castile (1983-2016)
Philando Castile was from St. Louis, Missouri and moved to St. Paul, Minnesota to find a job in education. He worked for the St. Paul Public School District as a nutrition services assistant at a Montessori school.
Consequences for the killer
Jeronimo Yanez was charged with second-degree manslaughter and dangerous discharge of a firearm, but was acquitted of both. He was fired from his post by the City of Saint Anthony.
How it changed the conversation
Philando’s death gained public attention and widely spread through social media because the encounter was filmed on Facebook Live by his girlfriend, Diamond Reynolds, from the passenger seat. The video shows Diamond’s 4 year-old daughter in the backseat.
Botham Jean (1991-2018)
Originally from the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, 26 year old Botham Jean moved to Dallas for an accounting job. He was an active member of the church, known for leading worship sessions, singing hymns, and organizing activities for orphanages. He was shot and killed by a police officer who entered his apartment, thinking it was her own.
Consequences for the killer
Amber Guyger was sentenced to 10 years for Botham Jean’s murder. She and her lawyers are currently in the process of appealing the conviction.
How it changed the conversation
The trial following the murder of Botham Jean was defined by Amber Guyger’s emotional display, and the sympathy she gained from Judge Tammy Kemp. After the sentencing Botham’s brother forgave and hugged Amber, provoking heated discussions on social media.
