The announcement that the grand jury failed to indict Darren Wilson for the murder of Michael Brown came in tonight. I just wanted to put a quick word about the aftermath and the protests that some may want to join in on, because I know that Macaulay students and Hunter students like to be active. This post is not about the grand jury's decision, it's simply a reminder for those who want to storm the streets:
Please be careful. Please be safe. Remember that Michael Brown's family has asked for nonviolent protest. Listen to those that are leading the protests, and try not to put yourselves or others at risk. Please do not make this about you and your friends doing something "cool," because that is not the point and that truly will not make a difference (I doubt this is really a necessary reminder). Please, please, please be safe. Remember that hate only breeds hate, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't protest injustice and move for change.
If you are not going to actively protest, please don't forget about Michael Brown. He was our age. He was a teenager. There are funds that you can donate to, if you want to help in that way and I can link you to some if you are interested. Don't forget about the countless others either. And don't just let this turn into a trendy hashtag.
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For those who may not be completely sure what tonight's decision was about, I also wanted to add just a few words on that. The grand jury was not deciding whether or not Darren Wilson was guilty; the grand jury was tasked with determining whether or not there was any evidence that justified bringing charges against him. Generally, the grand jury is not asked to base their decision on the standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt or even reasonable cause, but only that there was some evidence. This grand jury only needed 9 out of 12 people to indict. It is very rare for grand juries not to indict.
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