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I feel like it is important to share this again since I have met many more allies and friends since: The first time I went out to protest in Tampa, it was 4:30 PM downtown. I went with my mom and two best friends
The next thing I remember (shortly after getting there) is running as fast as I could towards UT & the river walk, because I was certain someone opened fire on the crowd. Loud bangs, screaming, and people running in every direction
In that moment while running I’m pretty positive someone opened fire on the crowd. Turns out it was “just” rubber bullets from @TampaPD and @HCSOSheriff. We took a deep breath in, relieved, and then began choking on the large amount of tear gas that filled the air
The four of us had never been shot at or tear gassed before. So, we were a little shaken up, but mostly enraged. It was a Sunday afternoon. In daylight. We had just gotten there. We didn’t even start marching.
The fearless crowd began marching on the set route. The courage I felt in the group was unbelievable
Escorted all the way to our next location. Thanks @TampaPD @HCSOSheriff
They beat us to the interstate. Let’s be clear: we were not trying to go on the interstate. That was their excuse for being there (TPD, HCSO, 100 national guard). You can see how far away we are, and the many LEO vehicles blocking the ramp. We were kneeling.
*trigger warning: violence, police brutality* this was the next footage I took. Probably 2 minutes after the last (apologies for the audio/video lag & my appearance) shoutout to the surveillance helicopter
*trigger warning: violence, police brutality* and here you can see exactly what @TampaPD @HCSOSheriff did to us on May 31 at around 5:30 PM (30 min before curfew that was only announced 1 hr prior). We moved back every single time they asked us to.
curfew was actually called for around 5 https://www.baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2020/05/31/tampa-enacts-curfew-following-protests
Additional video evidence that yes of course they use tear gas and are big fat liars
