THE ART OF PROTESTING: What’s Really going on?

by ARTavius Veasey photography by Dewayne Murrell

During the beginning of this year’s second quarter, the world-changing pandemic called Covid-19 or Corona Virus has taken the world by storm; De- manding countries across the world to shut down and send their citizens into a mandatory quaran- tine. However, frontline nurses and “essential work- ers” had to continue going to work under scary safety precautions. Needless to say, what a tragedy is was AND STILL IS TODAY! Throughout this pan- demic, police brutality began to make its way to multiple news headlines with the deaths of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, AND MANY MORE.

With the help of social media, the viewing of George Floyd’s sacrifice was absolutely traumatizing. Reaching millions of people in a matter of minutes; Hours later resulting in a spike of protest that set a historical record. The Black Lives Matter protest has raved many black and non-black people in every state of the United States and Internationally the first of its kind.

Outside of my joy watching black and other rac- es come together, seeing young creatives step up to use their artistry to express their frustrations to- wards police brutality and why Black Lives Matters was rewarding.

Us here in Memphis, TN had our share, and still to this day protesting. I took it amongst myself to get out there and join in the fight in my own way and took a trip to the city hall downtown. The 30 years of living here, never have I ever seen city hall look like this; Banners, signs, flags, chalk drawings, and more filled the entrances.

We must understand, there are many ways to join in the fight and make sure our voices are heard; Everyone is not as bold or comfortable to march and protest (including myself). Some people will use their creativity, rather through music, video, photography, painting, drawings, clothing, or mer- chandise; Others may want to donate money to the organizations or supporting those affected. Either way, it and qualifies as a contribution to the cause.

So on behalf of myself and I AM ART Campaign, we want to say keep it up! Keep pushing the gov- ernment and officials because change is definitely happening. Be sure you’re registered to vote and be sure to vote in the elections. We can’t let up now, there’s a good momentum going; BREONNA TAY- LOR’S KILLERS STILL HAVEN’T BEEN ARRESTED. Keep creating and making your contributions, we’re a FORCE TOGETHER!