Read on Twitter
I’ve never been a suspect for a violent crime, but have been held at gunpoint by the police 4 times. This is more than a # or march...racial profiling is a real issue that is costing black lives and traumatizing millions more. Change is beyond necessary.
The first time, I was parking on my college campus and officers said I looked “suspicious” walking to my dorm room.
The third time was when I was pulled over because the officers didn’t understand how I could afford a Cadillac CTS coupe. I had to explain my degree, profession, financial management and wait for them check my tags to prove my car wasn’t stolen...with guns drawn on me. No ticket.
The 4th time was at our annual college gala for my fraternity. Officers were called bcuz of noise complaints. As organizer of the gala, I approached to inquire and was handcuffed while guns were drawn at us in gowns and tuxes, demanding we go to our rooms during our rental time.
I don’t share to spread negativity or anything. I just know how critical it is that these stories be shared. Because they are a small snapshot of what black folks go through everyday in this country with racial profiling.
I remember in one of my earliest lessons in life (like 2nd grade) were about how to not “look” like a criminal. Not about how to become a lawyer, doctor, artist or pursue my dreams...but how to navigate life as a black man and just survive.
As black folks, we don’t ask for this. I was called a nigger before I knew I was black...because I beat a kid in basketball with a lucky hook shot. This was 2nd grade and my teacher shrugged it off.
I’m not sure about everyone else, but I wasn’t prepared for racism at the age of 8. Sadly, that’s my life and it’s not rare.
The second time, I was with my cousin in the car talking about the stock market crash, waiting to pick up a pizza. Apparently, we fit the “description“, we were then handcuffed, questioned about a crime we had no clue about with assault weapons aimed at us. I was in flip flops.
