INSIDER
Jury awards $700k to Seattle protesters jailed for writing anti-police slogans in chalk on barricade
Read full article: Jury awards $700k to Seattle protesters jailed for writing anti-police slogans in chalk on barricadeFour protesters have been awarded nearly $700,000 after they were jailed for writing anti-police slogans in chalk on a temporary police barricade on Jan. 1, 2021.
Black Lives Matter activist loses lawsuit against Los Angeles police over ‘swatting’ hoax response
Read full article: Black Lives Matter activist loses lawsuit against Los Angeles police over ‘swatting’ hoax responseA leading Black Lives Matter activist in Los Angeles has lost her lawsuit against the city’s police department over its handling of hoax calls that brought a large law enforcement response to her home.
Seattle will pay $10 million to protesters who said police used excessive force during 2020 protests
Read full article: Seattle will pay $10 million to protesters who said police used excessive force during 2020 protestsSeattle has agreed to pay $10 million to 50 demonstrators who sued over the police department's heavy-handed response to racial justice protests in 2020.
At Black Lives Matter house, families are welcomed into space of freedom and healing
Read full article: At Black Lives Matter house, families are welcomed into space of freedom and healingA national Black Lives Matter nonprofit that was widely criticized for purchasing a sprawling California mansion with donated funds recently opened the property to dozens of families who lost loved ones in incidents of police violence.
New Black Lives Matter tax documents show foundation is tightening its belt, has $30M in assets
Read full article: New Black Lives Matter tax documents show foundation is tightening its belt, has $30M in assetsA national Black Lives Matter nonprofit, whose philanthropic fortunes grew almost overnight during historic racial justice protests three years ago, raised just over $9 million in its last fiscal year, new IRS tax filings show.
Michigan man sentenced to 10 months after series of hate crimes targeting Black Lives Matter supporters
Read full article: Michigan man sentenced to 10 months after series of hate crimes targeting Black Lives Matter supportersKenneth D. Pilon, 62, previously pleaded guilty to willfully intimidating and attempting to intimidate citizens from engaging in lawful speech and protest in support of Black Lives Matter.
US gathered intel on Oregon protesters, report shows
Read full article: US gathered intel on Oregon protesters, report showsU.S. Department of Homeland Security officials under then-President Donald Trump compiled intelligence dossiers on people who were arrested at Black Lives Matter protests in Portland, Oregon.
Council member pleads no contest to handcuffing Trump critic
Read full article: Council member pleads no contest to handcuffing Trump criticKabacinski, a member of the Warren City Council, handcuffed a woman who placed BLM stickers on signs promoting then-President Donald Trump during a political rally in Eastpointe in October 2020, according to police.
Workplace behavior investigation into Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office underway -- What we know
Read full article: Workplace behavior investigation into Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office underway -- What we knowMacomb County released the results of an independent investigation into Prosecutor Peter Lucido on Monday. The investigation looks into multiple allegations of inappropriate behavior in the workplace by Lucido.
Nonprofit, volunteers to paint second Black Lives Matter mural in Ann Arbor on Saturday
Read full article: Nonprofit, volunteers to paint second Black Lives Matter mural in Ann Arbor on SaturdayStarting at 7 a.m., volunteers and Survivors Speak members will paint a Black Lives Matter mural at Wheeler Park on Saturday.
The AP Interview: BLM's Patrisse Cullors denies wrongdoing
Read full article: The AP Interview: BLM's Patrisse Cullors denies wrongdoingIn an exclusive interview, Patrisse Cullors, the former leader of the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, tells The Associated Press that neither she nor anyone else in leadership has misused millions of dollars in donations.
Feds: Michigan man left nooses, notes mocking BLM movement
Read full article: Feds: Michigan man left nooses, notes mocking BLM movementA retired Michigan optometrist faces federal charges for allegedly leaving nooses and notes mocking the Black Lives Matter movement inside a couple’s truck and near or inside stores as well as placing threatening phone calls.
Black Lives Matter rally and march for Patrick Lyoya held in Lansing
Read full article: Black Lives Matter rally and march for Patrick Lyoya held in LansingOn Friday (April 22), a funeral will be held for Patrick Lyoya, the man shot and killed by a police officer in Grand Rapids. Thursday in Lansing, people gathered to demand justice and to demand more information be released by police.
4 acquitted in toppling of British slave trader statue
Read full article: 4 acquitted in toppling of British slave trader statueFour anti-racism demonstrators have been cleared of criminal damage in the toppling of a statue of a 17th-century slave trader during a Black Lives Matter protest in southwestern England.
Police: Teens driven by racial hatred targeted BLM leader
Read full article: Police: Teens driven by racial hatred targeted BLM leaderAuthorities say three teenagers driven by racial hatred were behind hoax calls that brought major police responses to the home of one of the leading Black Lives Matter activists in Los Angeles.
Community members, elected officials gather to repaint vandalized Black Lives Matter mural in Ypsilanti
Read full article: Community members, elected officials gather to repaint vandalized Black Lives Matter mural in YpsilantiIt was an all hands on deck effort this past weekend to repair a Black Lives Matter mural that was defaced in September in Ypsilanti.
‘Hate has no place here.’ Washtenaw County condemns defacing of Ypsilanti BLM mural
Read full article: ‘Hate has no place here.’ Washtenaw County condemns defacing of Ypsilanti BLM muralWashtenaw County elected officials and administrators condemned the defacing of one of Ypsilanti's Black Lives Matter murals.
WNBA: Minnesota Lynx’s Layshia Clarendon featured on ESPN’s Cover Story platforms
Read full article: WNBA: Minnesota Lynx’s Layshia Clarendon featured on ESPN’s Cover Story platformsThe latest ESPN Cover Story featuring Minnesota Lynx guard Layshia Clarendon’s pronouns, she/he/they, debuted across the network’s digital, linear and social platforms, according to an ESPN press release.
Ypsilanti community creates Black Lives Matter street murals
Read full article: Ypsilanti community creates Black Lives Matter street muralsThe first mural stretches across South Washington Street between Ferris Street and Michigan Avenue. The second is at the Riverside Park entry driveway off of Cross Street.
Racist message found written on Ann Arbor family home
Read full article: Racist message found written on Ann Arbor family homeThe family’s identity is being withheld over concerns they could be targeted again, but they said it is important to show what their 10-year-old daughter found on their door in the middle of Ann Arbor.
Right-wing operatives heading to trial in Michigan over voter intimidation robocalls
Read full article: Right-wing operatives heading to trial in Michigan over voter intimidation robocallsTwo right-wing operatives accused of orchestrating robocalls designed to suppress voter turnout in the 2020 presidential election are heading to trial in Michigan over several felony charges.
Globes group ousts member over his Black Lives Matter email
Read full article: Globes group ousts member over his Black Lives Matter emailA former president of the organization that hosts the Golden Globes has been dropped from the group’s board after calling Black Lives Matter a “racist hate movement” in an email.
UN experts slam UK report for repackaging 'racist tropes'
Read full article: UN experts slam UK report for repackaging 'racist tropes'A body of experts that advises the United Nations on human rights concerns has slammed a widely criticized British government-backed report that concluded there was no systemic racism in the country.
Legal observers sue Detroit police over alleged brutality, civil rights violations during 2020 demonstrations
Read full article: Legal observers sue Detroit police over alleged brutality, civil rights violations during 2020 demonstrationsOn Monday it was announced that five legal observers with the National Lawyers Guild are suing the Detroit Police Department.
LIVE STREAM: Coverage of Derek Chauvin’s trial in George Floyd’s death (Day 11)
Read full article: LIVE STREAM: Coverage of Derek Chauvin’s trial in George Floyd’s death (Day 11)Day 11 of the trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin is underway Monday, and you can watch it live right here.
Authors of UK racism report hit back at 'misrepresentation'
Read full article: Authors of UK racism report hit back at 'misrepresentation'The commission behind a report that concluded that Britain does not have a systemic problem with racism has defended itself against critics, some of whom have argued that it downplayed the country’s historic role in slavery.
Plan to revamp police force proceeds in Ithaca, New York
Read full article: Plan to revamp police force proceeds in Ithaca, New YorkBlack Lives Matter is seen along East Green Street where is passes under South Aurora Street, Monday, March 22, 2021, in Ithaca, N.Y. The nationwide reexamination of policing after the killing of George Floyd has led the Ivy League town in New York to consider an ambitious and contentious plan to remake its force. A proposal would replace the 63-officer Ithaca Police Department with a new Department of Community Solutions and Public Safety. The Ithaca Common Council unanimously approved a series of reform recommendations Wednesday night that included reconstituting the city police force to add unarmed officers to handle nonviolent calls like petty thefts. AdArmed officers of the 63-officer force would be able to keep their positions, and supporters of the plan said the new unarmed officers would be able to engage more with communities distrustful of police.
Black adviser quits UK government in wake of racism report
Read full article: Black adviser quits UK government in wake of racism report(AP Photo/Frank Augstein, FILE)LONDON – The most senior Black adviser to U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has resigned, the government said Thursday, the day after a report on racial disparities concluded that Britain does not have a systemic problem with racism. But Simon Woolley, a former government equalities adviser and a member of the U.K. House of Lords, said Kasumu’s exit was connected to the “grubby” and “divisive” report. The Conservative government launched the inquiry into racial disparities in the wake of anti-racism protests last year. The panel of experts concluded that while “outright racism” exists in Britain, the country is not “institutionally racist” or “rigged” against ethnic minorities. “There are very serious issues that our society faces to do with racism that we need to address,” he said.
With drivers confused, Atlantic City to redo BLM road paint
Read full article: With drivers confused, Atlantic City to redo BLM road paint(AP Photo/Noah K. Murray, File)ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – Atlantic City says it will redo a Black Lives Matter tribute on a street because the original painting of those words across the entire road confused motorists who didn't know where to drive on it. Instead, the words “Black Lives Matter” will be painted onto the repaved road in a manner that does not obscure lane divider markings, Mayor Marty Small said Thursday. “The words ”Black Lives Matter" will still be on the street." The road painting was a compromise that averted a potential confrontation between activists who wanted to paint the words “Black Lives Matter” on the famous Boardwalk, and city officials who would not allow it. City Council member LaToya Dunston accused the city of wasting taxpayer dollars by painting the road without knowing the rules governing it.
Journalist acquitted in Iowa case seen as attack on press
Read full article: Journalist acquitted in Iowa case seen as attack on pressDes Moines Register reporter Andrea Sahouri, facing, hugs her mother, Muna Tareh-Sahouri, after being found not-guilty at the conclusion of her trial at the Drake University Legal Clinic, Wednesday, March 10, 2021, in Des Moines, Iowa. (Kelsey Kremer/The Des Moines Register via AP, Pool)IOWA CITY, Iowa – An Iowa jury on Wednesday acquitted a journalist who was pepper-sprayed and arrested by police while covering a protest, in a case that critics have derided as an attack on press freedoms and an abuse of prosecutorial discretion. Robnett, 24, said he was sprayed and handcuffed after telling the officer that Sahouri was a Register journalist. Sahouri was the first working U.S. journalist to face a criminal trial since 2018, according to the U.S. Press Freedom Tracker. Another Register reporter, Katie Akin, was near Sahouri and quickly informed police that they were journalists.
Detroit to dismiss some tickets issued during Floyd protests
Read full article: Detroit to dismiss some tickets issued during Floyd protests(AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File)Detroit will dismiss most misdemeanor citations issued last spring during several days of protests against police brutality following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, a city official said Tuesday. Most of the tickets written from May 31 through June 2 were for curfew violations as hundreds of people demonstrated in downtown Detroit. The city expects to dismiss 238 of the 245 tickets issued on those three days, Detroit Corporation Counsel Lawrence Garcia said. Dozens of demonstrators received appearance citations for violating the city’s 8 p.m. curfew, Garcia said in a statement. Prosecutors in Los Angeles also decided not to charge thousands of protesters arrested for violating curfew and other police orders.
Reports: Seattle police violated policies at summer protests
Read full article: Reports: Seattle police violated policies at summer protestsProtests erupted in Seattle and across the country after George Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis police officer. The latest findings are separate from three other investigations into Seattle officers by the Office of Police Accountability. In the latest reports, investigators found that officers and one commander violated department policies while responding to demonstrations in Seattle. As she walked toward a group of people, the officer threw the blast ball and it hit her in the chest. Investigations found that the officer violated department policy by throwing the blast ball overhand toward a person who was unarmed and not throwing projectiles at officers.
Rev. Wendell Anthony reflects on this past year for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Read full article: Rev. Wendell Anthony reflects on this past year for Martin Luther King Jr. Day“I’m inspired when I see the number of young Blacks and Whites who are part of the Black Lives Matter movement,” Rev. DeLashea Strawder, director of Detroit’s Mosaic Youth Theater, believes there has been progress. “There’s nothing wrong with that -- nothing wrong with good, strong, healthy debate.”“Of course, we’re not going to always agree, and that’s OK,” Strawder said. “My dream would be for everybody to be just equal,” said Makiah Quinn, a Mosaic Youth Theater member. “I don’t think that’s too much to ask.”Anthony had much more to say.
Grosse Pointe Shores man receives hate mail because of Black Lives Matter sign
Read full article: Grosse Pointe Shores man receives hate mail because of Black Lives Matter signGROSSE POINTE SHORES, Mich. – A local attorney who was recently ticketed for his Black Lives Matter sign now has a new set of problems. While the ticket was thrown out, Todd Perkins is dealing with hate mail being sent to his home. Inside the letter sent to his Grosse Pointe Shores home was a poem full of racial slurs and signage designed to be a jab at his Black Lives Matter sign in the front yard. Why do people think that Black Lives Suck,” said Perkins. There was a return address on the hate mail sent to Perkins.
Detroit reporter describes differences between US Capitol riot, BLM protests
Read full article: Detroit reporter describes differences between US Capitol riot, BLM protests“I’m still trying to gather my thoughts about what I saw yesterday,” Lewis said Thursday. The reporter had the opportunity to witness two historic events in Washington: Lewis covered the Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests during the summer of 2020. He says he was there on the streets covering the events after Minneapolis police killed George Floyd in May. Read: Race double standard clear in rioters’ Capitol insurrectionOver the summer, Lewis says officers dispersed BLM protesters in a matter of minutes. Related: Michigan leaders condemn ‘double standard’ of treatment of mostly white rioters at US Capitol
Michigan leaders condemn ‘double standard’ of treatment of mostly white rioters at US Capitol
Read full article: Michigan leaders condemn ‘double standard’ of treatment of mostly white rioters at US CapitolCongresswoman Lawrence says, though it may be difficult for people to hear or even realize, the truth is that Capitol police would have responded differently Wednesday if the rioters Black instead of white. More: Race double standard clear in rioters’ Capitol insurrectionLawrence was among the many lawmakers inside the U.S. Capitol when the pro-Trump extremists stormed the building on Wednesday. Many are wondering why police had such a heavy presence amid largely peaceful BLM protests, but were hardly present amid such a violent riot Jan. 6. He also agrees there are major differences in the treatment of white and Black demonstrators by law enforcement. Congresswoman Lawrence says hearings will take place regarding what happened in Washington on Jan. 6 and the lack of security at the Capitol.
Judge bans Proud Boys leader from Washington after arrest
Read full article: Judge bans Proud Boys leader from Washington after arrestFILE - In this Sept. 26, 2020, file photo, Proud Boys leader Henry "Enrique" Tarrio wears a hat that says The War Boys during a rally in Portland, Ore. Police in the nations capital on Jan. 4, 2021, arrested the leader of the Proud Boys, who is accused of burning a Black Lives Matter banner that was torn down from a historic Black church in downtown Washington in December 2020. (AP Photo/Allison Dinner, File)WASHINGTON – A judge has banned the leader of the Proud Boys, a far-right extremist group, from the nation’s capital after he was accused of vandalizing a Black Lives Matter banner at a historic Black church and found with high-capacity firearm magazines when he was arrested. Tarrio was arrested Monday by the Metropolitan Police Department and accused of burning a Black Lives Matter banner that was torn down from a historic Black church in downtown Washington last month. A large Black Lives Matter sign was ripped from Asbury United Methodist Church property, torn and set aflame in December. Tarrio was seen with the sign in video of the incident posted on YouTube, according to a police report.
Proud Boys leader arrested, accused of burning church banner
Read full article: Proud Boys leader arrested, accused of burning church bannerFILE - In this Sept. 26, 2020, file photo, Proud Boys leader Henry "Enrique" Tarrio wears a hat that says The War Boys during a rally in Portland, Ore. Police in the nations capital on Jan. 4, 2021, arrested the leader of the Proud Boys, who is accused of burning a Black Lives Matter banner that was torn down from a historic Black church in downtown Washington in December 2020. (AP Photo/Allison Dinner, File)WASHINGTON – Police in the nation’s capital on Monday arrested the leader of the Proud Boys, who is accused of burning a Black Lives Matter banner that was torn down from a historic Black church in downtown Washington last month. By nightfall, vandals tore down a Black Lives Matter banner and sign from two historic Black churches in downtown Washington and set the banner ablaze. Tarrio told The Washington Post he had participated in the burning of the Black Lives Matter banner and said he would plead guilty to destruction of property and pay the church the cost of the banner. Another video showed men removing a Black Lives Matter sign at the Metropolitan A.M.E. Church.
Athletes act: Stars rise up against racial injustice in 2020
Read full article: Athletes act: Stars rise up against racial injustice in 2020The NBA painted “Black Lives Matter” on the courts inside their Orlando, Florida, “bubble" and social justice messages were emblazoned on the backs of jerseys. Paul met with NBA players, and they decided awareness wasn’t enough anymore. “Black Lives Matter” also was featured prominently on the league’s courts. Wallace, the only full-time Black driver at the NASCAR national level, first began speaking out against racial injustice in America in the spring. His car featured a “Black Lives Matter” paint scheme.
Christmas unites community after fire guts historic church
Read full article: Christmas unites community after fire guts historic churchThe site of Middle Collegiate Church, which was devastated by a fire earlier in the month, is seen in New York on Dec. 14, 2020. The facade and the New York Liberty Bell are the only parts of the 128-year-old church that remain. Middle Collegiate had previously occupied two other locations in Manhattan beginning in 1729. Middle Collegiate has also welcomed 25 new parishioners since the fire, she said. “The church is made up of the congregation and what the people in the congregation believe and do,” said Slacik, who married her wife at the church.
Police guide that calls BLM a terrorist group draws outrage
Read full article: Police guide that calls BLM a terrorist group draws outrageFILE - In this July 11, 2020 file photo, Alycia Pascual-Pena, left, and Marley Ralph kneel while holding a Black Lives Matter banner during a protest in memory of Breonna Taylor, in Los Angeles. The document, labeled “restricted to law enforcement only,” is one of the few publicly available materials on its website. The law enforcement association, known by its nickname ILEETA, says in a mission statement that it's “committed to the reduction of law enforcement risk” and saving lives through high-quality training. The paper claims that those who participated in months of protests earlier this year in Portland and Seattle were “useful idiots” designed to give cover to the “hard-core, terrorist trained troops” that would follow. Goff, whose group works with departments to make policing “less racist and deadly,” said the document showed why it's important for critics to engage directly with local law enforcement to seek changes.
Portland, Oregon rejects bid to cut $18M more from police
Read full article: Portland, Oregon rejects bid to cut $18M more from policeBack the Blue police supporters, left, stand next to Black Lives Matter protesters calling for defunding the police, Thursday, Nov. 5, 2020, in Portland, Ore. (AP Photo/Paula Bronstein)
Black Lives Matter faces test of its influence in election
Read full article: Black Lives Matter faces test of its influence in election“Black Lives Matter saved us, because we had nobody,” said Jones. Now, BLM’s influence faces a test, as voters in Tuesday’s election consider candidates who endorsed or denounced the BLM movement amid a national reckoning on race. Enter Black Lives Matter. Across social media platforms, the Black Lives Matter movement boasts a following of millions. “Black Lives Matter,” as a slogan, elicited “All Lives Matter” and “Blue Lives Matter” responses from foes.
Is there a racial divide when it comes to length of the voting lines?
Read full article: Is there a racial divide when it comes to length of the voting lines?Is there a racial divide when it comes to voting wait times at precincts? In 2016, white voters waited an average of 10 minutes, according to a survey of voters conducted by the Bipartisan Policy Center and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In comparison, Black voters waited an average of 16 minutes and Latino voters were in line an average of 13 minutes, according to the survey. During the 2018 election, Black voters waited an average of 11.5 minutes, Latino voters an average of 11.7 minutes and white voters an average of 8.8 minutes, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center. In precincts with 90% or more non-white voters, the average wait time was 32.4 minutes and the median was 13.3 minutes.
Warren councilman Eddie Kabacinski charged with assault, impersonating an officer
Read full article: Warren councilman Eddie Kabacinski charged with assault, impersonating an officerWARREN, Mich. – Warren City Councilman Eddie Kabacinski is facing several charges following an incident that was caught on camera. He is charged with assault and battery and impersonating a public officer. During the march against racism, Eddie Kabicinski and about 20 other counter protesters assembled across the street from us. Similar to the incident in Eastpointe, Eddie Kabicinski was seen impersonating an officer at the Rally in Warren. Even if Eddie is convicted of impersonating an officer and assault, it still is unlikely that he will be jailed.
Police investigate Warren city councilman accused of handcuffing woman
Read full article: Police investigate Warren city councilman accused of handcuffing womanWARREN, Mich. – Police said a Warren city councilman is under investigation because he is accused of handcuffing a woman, who put “Black Lives Matter” stickers on a President Trump campaign sign. A woman said Kabacinski chased her down and handcuffed her after she put the stickers on a sign. Lindsay Parton lives in Kabacinski’s district. Parton is also part of the political action group, Swarm, which released a statement making it clear how they feel about Kabacinski. The woman who was handcuffed said she was shaken up but is OK.Kabacinski’s case is with prosecutors.
Environmental groups sue over Portland tear gas use
Read full article: Environmental groups sue over Portland tear gas useThe federal lawsuit alleges the U.S. government violated federal environmental law by deploying “an unprecedented amount of dangerous chemical weapons” without assessing their environmental impacts beforehand, as required by the National Environmental Policy Act. Oregon’s Department of Environmental Quality noted that “the repeated deployment of tear gas in downtown Portland has led to elevated levels of certain contaminants” in stormwater drains. But state officials said air-quality monitors aren’t located nearby and don’t measure tear gas exposure. Medical experts say there are few studies on health effects of tear gas. A European Union agency says it “is very toxic to aquatic life.”Figuring out precisely what tear gas components are in the environment is also a challenge.
Wyandotte woman charged after injuring 1 in hit-and-run during protest in Taylor
Read full article: Wyandotte woman charged after injuring 1 in hit-and-run during protest in TaylorWAYNE COUNTY, Mich. – A 68-year-old Wyandotte woman has been charged in connection with a hit-and-run that happened during a Downriver Black Lives Matter protest in June. The incident happened on June 16 at 7:20 p.m. in the 23300 block of Goddard Road. A 45-year-old Van Buren Township woman was injured. When Jones' vehicle was close to the protesters, it is reported that Jones drove through the protesters striking a Van Buren Township woman. The Van Buren Township woman received non-life-threatening injuries and received medical attention at the scene.
Man faces judge in Warren hate crime, asks for forgiveness
Read full article: Man faces judge in Warren hate crime, asks for forgivenessWARREN, Mich. – Michael John Frederick Jr. is accused of firing shots into the home of a family of veterans, slashing their tires, smashing a window, vandalizing their truck with a swastika, expletives and the words “Not Welcome.”Frederick faced Judge Michael Chupa Thursday, where he said he wanted the Hall family to forgive him. I can say it’s not like me,” Frederick said. “People should be able to reasonably disagree about politics without it resorting to violence. Using violence, whether motivated by race or politics or hatred or acrimony," Chupa said. "I don’t care, that is not what America is about.”Anyone with information is urged to contact the Warren Police Department at 586-574-4877.
Voices of a Nation: What everyone can do to help combat racism
Read full article: Voices of a Nation: What everyone can do to help combat racismDETROIT – If we want to see equality, social justice and reform happen, it will take all of us working together. The fight against racism continues and whether you think you’re directly affected or not, fighting for equality is everyone’s responsibility. "White people have a role that’s different than Black people do.”“It’s everybody’s job," said Frank Joyce, with People Against Racism. Do not give the implicit permission to other white people to talk to you about Black people," Cockrel said. Because I see people in motion and because compared to my experience 50+ years ago, the number of people in motion, white, Black, Latinx, indigenous etc.
White man seeks forgiveness in attack on Black family's home
Read full article: White man seeks forgiveness in attack on Black family's homeA 24-year-old white man has been charged with ethnic intimidation and other counts for firing shots into the Hall's home just north of Detroit after the family put a Black Lives Matter sign in their front window. (AP Photo/Corey Williams)WARREN, Mich. – A white man accused of firing shots into the home of a Black suburban Detroit family who put a Black Lives Matter sign in their front window asked for forgiveness during a court hearing Thursday. Frederick told Judge Michael Chupa that he wanted Eddie and Candace Hall to forgive him, though he didn't specify what he did to make him seek their forgiveness. Outside, they discovered the swastika and found that someone had written “terrorist Black Lives Matter,” “not welcome” and a phrase containing an expletive on their pickup truck. A neighbor’s home surveillance video showed a masked and hooded man carrying what appears to be a handgun outside the Halls' home.
Man confesses to crimes against Warren family in federal hate crime investigation
Read full article: Man confesses to crimes against Warren family in federal hate crime investigationWARREN, Mich. – A press conference was held Wednesday afternoon to release details into the arrest of a man in connection with a hate crime investigation in Warren. Teams were sent out to knock on every door south of 11 Mile Road and west of Hoover Road. Investigators believe it was their Black Lives Matter sign that set off a 24-year-old delivery truck driver who lives with his parents around the corner. Police said he confessed to crimes against the Hall family and against another home that had “Pedophile” spray painted on the garage door because they had a Joe Biden sign. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Warren Police Department at 586-574-4877.
Secret grand jury files in Breonna Taylor case to be public
Read full article: Secret grand jury files in Breonna Taylor case to be publicBlack Lives Matter protesters march, Friday, Sept. 25, 2020, in Louisville. Breonna Taylor's family demanded Friday that Kentucky authorities release all body camera footage, police files and the transcripts of the grand jury hearings that led to no charges against police officers who killed the Black woman during a March drug raid at her apartment. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
Homespun BLM products include cookie kits, garden gnomes
Read full article: Homespun BLM products include cookie kits, garden gnomesOne of the cookie-decorating kits she offers has a Black Lives Matter theme. Other examples of homespun BLM merchandise include wine stoppers and even garden gnomes — objects more often associated with white suburbia. The yellow-and-black-clad gnome — a nod to the colors used on a Black Lives Matter website — wears a “BLM” hat. “Hopefully, someone who sees it is not offended.”He has since gotten a few orders for either Black Lives Matter gnomes or African American gnomes. Kate Mayer, 37, of Cincinnati, decided to offer a Black Lives Matter wine bottle stopper among her dozens of handmade wine stoppers.
Louisville protests continue in Breonna Taylor's name
Read full article: Louisville protests continue in Breonna Taylor's nameProtesters spend time in a church lot, Friday, Sept. 25, 2020, in Louisville. Many briefly ended up back at a downtown square that has been a focal point of protests. Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer had urged continued peaceful protests in an appearance at a news conference Saturday evening. Cameron said the other officers were not charged with Taylor’s killing because they acted to protect themselves. Since when does freedom and civil rights have a curfew?”___Associated Press writer Claire Galofaro contributed to this report from Louisville.
Police canvas Warren neighborhood in hate crime investigation
Read full article: Police canvas Warren neighborhood in hate crime investigationWARREN, Mich. – Police are going door-to-door in a Warren neighborhood looking for new clues into a series of racially motivated attacks on an African-American family. Warren police stepped up their search for a man who terrorized a family with violent actions and messages of hate. Shon Smith knew someone threw a rock through the window of the Hall family home on Sept. 9. She became emotional when she learned the same man fired shots a the home Sept. 7 and Sept. 10. “It brought tears to my eyes.”The police, the FBI and the two veterans targeted in the attacks believe they were targeted for a Black Lives Matter sign they placed in their window.
Warren veterans spend weeks in hotel after home repeatedly attacked
Read full article: Warren veterans spend weeks in hotel after home repeatedly attackedWARREN, Mich. – Police continue to investigate an apparent hate crime against a family in Warren. The family said they aren’t taking and chances and have temporarily moved out of their own home. They said they’d rather be in their own beds, but have spent the last two weeks in a hotel after their home was targeted in multiple hate crimes. Warren police and the FBI are investigating, but the person has not been caught yet. The family said they feel terrorized and will likely feel that way until the culprit has been caught.
Trump, social media, right-wing news stir up antifa scares
Read full article: Trump, social media, right-wing news stir up antifa scaresIt's a scene that has unfolded in many other cities and small towns this year, the product of fear and conflict stoked by bogus posts on social media, right-wing news outlets and even some of the nation's most powerful leaders. A man suspected of fatally shooting a Trump supporter after a pro-Trump caravan in Portland, Oregon, last month had described himself in a social media post as “100% ANTIFA." They’re trying to blame all this stuff on antifa, and I’m like, ‘Who exactly is antifa? Adam Klein, an associate professor of communication studies at Pace University, analyzed social media posts by far-right extremists and antifascist activists leading up to the Charlottesville rally three years ago. “You don’t get the sense online that there is an organization as much as there are some prominent (social media) accounts associated with antifa,” he said.
New mural on Detroit’s west side promotes solidarity
Read full article: New mural on Detroit’s west side promotes solidarityDETROIT – Well-known local artist Sheefy McFly put the finishing touches on a mural Friday. The mural, painted on the side of Flamingo Vintage, located near the intersection of Junction Avenue and Vernor Highway, was made to promote solidarity. The team behind the mural said the goal is to keep the conversations and movement active. A socially-distanced block party will take place Friday at 4 p.m. to unveil the mural. RELATED: Uniquely Detroit: Artist Sheefy McFly brings love to the city through his artMcFly has painted multiple murals across Metro Detroit.
Metro Detroit Catholic priest compared Black Lives Matter to 9/11 attackers in homily
Read full article: Metro Detroit Catholic priest compared Black Lives Matter to 9/11 attackers in homilyDEARBORN, Mich. – The pastor of a Roman Catholic church in suburban Detroit is apologizing after a fellow priest likened Black Lives Matter to the people responsible for the 9/11 attacks. Paul Graney's homily Saturday created "division, anger, confusion and chaos,” the Rev. “As your pastor, I want to assure you that at Divine Child we love and respect all persons. Graney said it’s "very good” that BLM’s website says it works for justice for Blacks, but that's where his praise ended. And they would have done it if they could,” said Graney, who has been a priest since 2016.
$3,000 reward offered for information in racially motivated attack on Warren veterans
Read full article: $3,000 reward offered for information in racially motivated attack on Warren veteransWARREN, Mich. – Police are offering a $3,000 reward to help find who is responsible for a hate crime committed in Warren. The Warren Police Department released surveillance video of a man outside the home holding a gun. The house, owned by two Black veterans, was shot up Thursday night and Monday night. They are veterans," Dwyer said. “This is a hate crime.”UPDATE: FBI to launch federal hate crime investigation on attack on Warren familyAnyone with information is urged to contact the Warren Police Department at 586-574-4877.
FBI to launch federal hate crime investigation on attack on Warren family
Read full article: FBI to launch federal hate crime investigation on attack on Warren familyWARREN, Mich. – Within two days, the Hall family had their tires slashed, swastikas drawn on their vehicles, shots fired at their home and their front window smashed. Warren police released video of a man outside the home holding a gun Friday and announced a $3,000 reward for information to help find who is responsible. The video captures a man wearing a mask and hood with a gun in hand stalking the family’s home in Warren. Eddie Hall and Candace Sparks-Hall were not home at the time and were notified of the shooting by their neighbor. Police said the FBI has been called in to launch a federal hate crime investigation.
FBI to launch federal hate crime investigation on attack on Warren family
Read full article: FBI to launch federal hate crime investigation on attack on Warren familyFBI to launch federal hate crime investigation on attack on Warren familyPublished: September 11, 2020, 5:08 pmWithin two days, the Hall family had their tires slashed, swastikas drawn on their vehicles, shots fired at their home and their front window smashed.
$3,000 reward offered for information in racially motivated attack in Warren
Read full article: $3,000 reward offered for information in racially motivated attack in Warren$3,000 reward offered for information in racially motivated attack in WarrenPublished: September 11, 2020, 12:12 pmThe safety of a Warren family was shattered Wednesday night when someone slashed the veteran’s tires, wrote racial threats on their cars and smashed a window.
Macomb County veterans targeted in suspected hate crime
Read full article: Macomb County veterans targeted in suspected hate crimeA Macomb County family and their home came under attack Wednesday night. The safety of the Hall family home in Warren was shattered at about 10 p.m. Wednesday. Outside, the couple found the tires slashed on Hall’s work truck, on Sparks-Hall’s car, and on their son’s car he received for graduating. Racist messages and a swastika were written on Hall’s work truck. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Warren Police Department at 586-574-4877 or the mayor’s office at 586-574-4520.
Poll: Michigan voters support Black Lives Matter movement, oppose defund the police
Read full article: Poll: Michigan voters support Black Lives Matter movement, oppose defund the policeMichigan voters support the Black Lives Matter movement, but are skeptical of the call to defund the police, according to a new WDIV/Detroit News poll. According to the poll, about 58 percent of Michigan voters support the Black Lives Matter movement, with 42 percent strongly supporting it. Party Affiliation Support Oppose Strong Democratic 92.7% 5.0% Lean Democratic 83.4% 7.1% Independent 49.5% 32.1% Lean Republican 30.2% 58.5% Strong Republican 19.3% 70.2%About 94 percent of Black voters support the Black Live Matter movement, while 50.6 percent of white voters support it, according to the WDIV/Detroit News poll. Defund the police lacks support, but voters open to shifting fundsMichigan voters sharply oppose a move to defund the police. Only 17.9 percent of voters support efforts to defund the police while 75.3 percent oppose the efforts. Despite the opposition, Michigan voters support efforts to shift some funding for police to other areas that might fight crime.
Unions threaten work stoppages amid calls for racial justice
Read full article: Unions threaten work stoppages amid calls for racial justiceAhead of Labor Day, major U.S. labor unions say they are considering work stoppages in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)NEW YORK Ahead of Labor Day, unions representing millions across several working-class sectors are threatening to authorize work stoppages in support of the Black Lives Matter movement amid calls for concrete measures that address racial injustice. Are we in conversation with our members and the national labor movement about how we escalate our tactics to stop fascism and win justice? Martin Luther King Jr. and Rep. John Lewis and was organized by A. Philip Randolph, a Black icon of the labor movement. That connection has only intensified because of the importance of workers of color, particularly African Americans, in the labor movement, Sugrue said.
Portland's grim reality: 100 days of protests, many violent
Read full article: Portland's grim reality: 100 days of protests, many violentBlack Lives Matter protests, vigils and speeches marking the occasion are planned over three days and Trump supporters are planning another caravan rally. But smaller protests have continued, with groups of 100 to 200 people marching nightly. The protesters want city officials to slash the police budget and reallocate that money to Black residents and businesses. The tension reached a new high last weekend when the pro-Trump caravan motored into downtown, with some shooting paintballs and spraying bear repellent at Black Lives Matter protesters who tried to block the streets. Lost amid the escalating tensions are the voices of the citys Black residents, who are divided about the best way to keep up the momentum of the Black Lives Matter movement.
More than 250 arrested since Blake shooting in Wisconsin
Read full article: More than 250 arrested since Blake shooting in WisconsinA protester holds a flag during a Black Lives Matter march Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2020, in Kenosha, Wis. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)If you need help with the Public File, call (313) 222-0566.
Black community leaders weigh in on debate over whether Black-on-Black crime should be protested
Read full article: Black community leaders weigh in on debate over whether Black-on-Black crime should be protestedThe increase in crime has sparked a quiet, but spirited debate within the local Black community. The question being raised is whether Black-on-Black crime should be protested the same way crimes against Blacks involving police or people of other backgrounds has been. Some think the Black community also needs protest Black-on-Black crimes. Those other two are racial injustice among Blacks and Black-on-Black crime. Some believe Black-on-Black crime is also killing Blacks, but theres very little outcry.
NHL players discuss options for racial injustice protests
Read full article: NHL players discuss options for racial injustice protestsNHL players are discussing options to protest racial injustice after the NBA and other professional sports leagues postponed games, according to a person with knowledge of those talks. Players in those leagues were protesting the shooting by police in Kenosha, Wisconsin, of Jacob Blake, a Black man. He and Dumba, who gave an anti-racism speech on the opening night of the NHL restart and afterward knelt for the U.S. anthem, called on white players to take action about racial injustice. The NHL Players' Association is having those discussions ahead of two games scheduled for Thursday. Boston captain Zdeno Chara expressed support for NBA players but said it was too close to the 8 p.m. game time for players to have a serious discussion about not taking the ice.
ACLU sues over federal action in Portland, Oregon, protests
Read full article: ACLU sues over federal action in Portland, Oregon, protestsThe American Civil Liberties Union has filed a federal lawsuit Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020, challenging the legality of the actions taken by U.S. agents sent by President Donald Trump to subdue protests in Portland. The federal agents exceeded the limits of their authority, making illegal arrests and using tear gas, rubber bullets, pepper spray and other tactics to squelch the protests, the lawsuit alleges. A video of plaintiff and Navy veteran Christopher David's encounter with U.S. agents outside the Portland courthouse circulated widely on social media. It showed one agent hitting David with a baton and another dousing him in the face with pepper spray. Local police have arrested hundreds of people over the three months and federal agents arrested at least 94 people at the height of the demonstrations in July.
Macomb Township couple claim being singled out by HOA for Black Lives Matter sign
Read full article: Macomb Township couple claim being singled out by HOA for Black Lives Matter signMacomb Township couple claim being singled out by HOA for Black Lives Matter signPublished: August 25, 2020, 6:25 pmA Macomb Township couple said they feel racially profiled after receiving a letter from the homeowner association. For more information: https://www.clickondetroit.com/.
Photos: Protesters, authorities clash in Wisconsin after video emerges of police shooting unarmed Black man
Read full article: Photos: Protesters, authorities clash in Wisconsin after video emerges of police shooting unarmed Black manThis time, the town is Kenosha, Wisconsin, which has about 100,000 people and sits just south of Milwaukee. The city is now trying to quell racial tension after police were caught on camera shooting 29-year-old Jacob Blake in the back multiple times. (2020 Getty Images)A car attempts to drive through a crowd of protesters on Aug. 24, 2020 in Kenosha. (2020 Getty Images)Demonstrators chant in front of a burning truck on Aug. 24, 2020 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. (2020 Getty Images)A man stands with a sign on Aug. 24, 2020 in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Macomb family asked to remove Black Lives Matter signs after HOA complaint
Read full article: Macomb family asked to remove Black Lives Matter signs after HOA complaintMACOMB COUNTY, Mich. Aries and Tia Rodgers said they were singled out because of the Black Lives Matter signs that they have in their Macomb-area lawn. This is a real sensitive time to address something as simple as a Black Lives Matter sign, Aries Rodgers said. Its not just Trump signs. Its Trump signs, graduation signs, proud parents, school signs. You cant pinpoint us and not go for the other people, Tia Rodgers said.
Police shooting lays bare Wisconsin's deep partisan divide
Read full article: Police shooting lays bare Wisconsin's deep partisan divideA small group of Black Lives Matter protesters pray near the sight of a police shooting Monday, Aug. 24, 2020, in Kenosha, Wis. Kenosha police shot a man Sunday evening, setting off unrest in the city after a video appeared to show the officer firing several shots at close range into the man's back. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)
Black creatives in Italian fashion demand cultural reform
Read full article: Black creatives in Italian fashion demand cultural reformFashion designer Stella Jean talks during an interview with the Associated Press, in Rome, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2020. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)MILAN The only Black designer belonging to Italys influential fashion council is demanding a "long overdue cultural reform from her colleagues under the slogan: Do Black Lives Matter in Italy? A frequent refrain from Black creatives in Italian fashion is that they are often the only person of color in the workplace. Stella chafes at the Africa Hub, which promoted five brands during Milan Fashion Week in February. While she won't show in September, she has asked Capasa to host a Black Lives Matter event to kick off "the immediate launch of a long-overdue fashion cultural reform.''
Looking back on the Watts Riots, 55 years later: In photos
Read full article: Looking back on the Watts Riots, 55 years later: In photos(Getty Images)Scenes from the Watts Riots in Los Angeles in 1965. (Getty Images)Scenes from the Watts Riots in Los Angeles in 1965. (Getty Images)Scenes from the Watts Riots in Los Angeles in 1965. (Getty Images)Scenes from the Watts Riots in Los Angeles in 1965. (Getty Images)Scenes from the Watts Riots in Los Angeles in 1965.
Detroit entrepreneur helps others grow their own small businesses
Read full article: Detroit entrepreneur helps others grow their own small businessesDETROIT To own and grow a small business, one has to have that special drive -- and theres one Black business owner who is using his own success to help others get in the game and thrive. RELATED: Black business owners in Detroit on the importance of community supportI was raised in the hair salon. He opened Directions Salon in Detroit in 1988. When we got downtown, there werent a lot of Black businesses at all, Ginn said. Most of the help I get is from the stylists here and the people that work in the bar, Ginn said.
Lack of study and oversight raises concerns about tear gas
Read full article: Lack of study and oversight raises concerns about tear gasFILE - In this July 26, 2020, file photo, federal officers launch tear gas at demonstrators during a Black Lives Matter protest at the Mark O. Hatfield U.S. Courthouse in Portland, Ore. The Associated Press found that there is no government oversight of the manufacture and use of tear gas. Instead, the industry is left to regulate itself. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)
Michigan mothers band together to help keep Black children with autism safe
Read full article: Michigan mothers band together to help keep Black children with autism safeFor some, that conversation is even trickier as their children are living with autism. Some parents have banded together to help keep their children safe. Camille Proctor learned that her son Ari had autism in 2008 and immediately sought out support groups to help guide her. If he sees a police officer, he may imitate a TV show he saw with the police officer, Danielle said. For more information on The Color of Autism or to donate, visit the official website here.
Black business owners in Detroit on the importance of community support
Read full article: Black business owners in Detroit on the importance of community supportDETROIT In the past few weeks weve heard a lot of talk about supporting Black-owned businesses especially during the month of August. Local 4s Evrod Cassimy sat down with several Black businesses owners and they explained why its so important now more than ever. In the Black community often times I think we dont really push entrepreneurship the way that we should, said Detroit District 5 Councilwoman Mary Sheffield. Mary Sheffield is an advocate for supporting Black owned businesses. These business owners believe in supporting Black-owned business so much theyre even putting their money where their mouth is.
ClickOnDetroit: No. 1 news website 6 months in a row
Read full article: ClickOnDetroit: No. 1 news website 6 months in a rowAccording to Google Analytics, ClickOnDetroit reached 8,643,749 users in July, one of the top five best months ever. 1 in with 1,099,749 unique multiplatform visitors in June, ClickOnDetroit reached more people than any other local news source. ClickOnDetroit beat its closest competitor, Freep.com (Detroit Free Press), by more than 100,000 unique visitors and WXYZ.com (7 Action News) by more than 300,000 unique visitors across platforms. The website also grew its unique visitors by 30% over June 2019, according to Comscore. ClickOnDetroit: 1,099,749 unique visitorsFreep.com : 989,634 unique visitorsMLive.com : 869,707 unique visitorsDetroitNews.com : 787,610 unique visitorsWXYZ.com : 665,366 unique visitorsSource: Comscore Multi-Platform Media Metrix, June 2020.
Analysis: Early returns say so far, so good for NBA bubble
Read full article: Analysis: Early returns say so far, so good for NBA bubbleIf that wasnt enough, the quality of play is so good that its almost like the NBA hadnt stopped playing for 4-1/2 months. In all honestly, its better than I was expecting ... talking about all the teams in general, San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich said. So, you see some of the talents these guys have are coming out.The numbers inside the bubble are ridiculous. Try 36 points again, 18 rebounds and eight assists in the Bucks loss to Houston on Sunday night. The Rockets beat the Mavs 153-149 in overtime Friday and then tried 61 3-pointers to tie an NBA regulation-game record Sunday.
Portland protest peaceful after federal presence reduced
Read full article: Portland protest peaceful after federal presence reducedLeshan Terry hold his son Leshan Terry, Jr., 6, during a Black Lives Matter protest at the Mark O. Hatfield United States Courthouse on Friday, July 31, 2020, in Portland, Ore. A group identified as Firefighters for Black Lives Matter gathered in a small park a couple miles west of the courthouse. A parade of cars with Black Lives Matter signs taped to their windows slowed traffic in the city. Since then, there have been no visible signs of any federal law enforcement presence outside the Mark O. Hatfield Federal Courthouse. And while thousands have marched and rallied peacefully, Portlands federal courthouse became a target for some protesters.
Dumba kneels, NHL puts focus on Black Lives Matter movement
Read full article: Dumba kneels, NHL puts focus on Black Lives Matter movementDumba knelt at center ice Saturday while fellow Black players Malcolm Subban of Chicago and Darnell Nurse of Edmonton each stood with a hand on one of his shoulders. Several teams this week stood together during the U.S. and Canadian anthems, with some players locking arms to show solidarity. I hope this inspires a new generation of hockey players and hockey fans because Black lives matter, Breonna Taylors life matters. When the playoffs began Saturday, one banner in Toronto's Scotiabank Arena read, #WeSkateFor Black Lives." But when an issue is bigger than the game, we must speak out, starting with three words we need to get comfortable saying: Black Lives Matter."
Portland, Oregon, protests relatively calm after US drawdown
Read full article: Portland, Oregon, protests relatively calm after US drawdownMarshals Service and Immigration and Customs Enforcement pulled back, troopers with the Oregon State Police took over. There were no visible signs of any law enforcement presence outside the Mark O. Hatfield Federal Courthouse, where a protest lasted into early Friday. Protests have roiled Portland for more than two months following the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. And while thousands have marched and rallied peacefully, Portland's federal courthouse became a target for some protesters. He apologized to peaceful demonstrators exposed to tear gas used by Portland police before federal officials arrived.