Items

• 
  2021-03-13

  University of Minnesota students rallied to demand community control of the UMPD

  From the Instagram post: The city of Minneapolis on Friday agreed to pay $27 million to settle a civil lawsuit with George Floyd's family just weeks before opening statements were scheduled to begin for the former officer charged with his death. This payment marked the second multi-million-dollar payout for police actions in the past two years. According to MPR News, the settlement in Floyd’s death raises the total amount the city has paid to settle police officer misconduct cases to $71 million over the past two decades. Yesterday, University of Minnesota students rallied to demand community control of the UMPD, call out racism on campus, and stand in solidarity with the family of George Floyd.
• 2020-06-02

  Wethersfieldblm instagram page

  This item was important because this instagram was used to organize the Black Lives Matter march that took place on June 5th in Wethersfield. The account also created the “Grievances From the Members of Our Community” list. I think this item is important because this entire instagram, these documents, and most importantly, the protest/march were created by people I used to know back in high school and even before then. This shows that our/my generation is far more involved in activism than most other generations have, as you see and hear a lot more younger people have been taking part in these protests, and being more vocal on social media. This instagram is also a good public digital history project as it allowed members of the community to share their own stories and experiences.
• 
  2020-12-02

  “Back the Blue” sign

  I decided to include this into the collection because I believe that it would be unethical to exclude the “opposing side”. The “Back the Blue” movement is a sort of counter-movement created against the calls to “defund the police”. ‘Back the Blue’ is also often referred to as ‘Blue Lives Matter’ or ‘Thin Blue Line’. I felt that this was necessary to include opposing viewpoints, as not to completely dismiss them from existing, which would be unethical, and future historians who look back onto 2020 will also find out about this counter movement and the reason why it was formed, which allows them to fully grasp the environment of our times.
• 
  2020-06-02

  “Justice for George Floyd” sign in front of Historical Building

  This is a sign that was put at the door of a historical building in Old Wethersfield, shortly following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The killing of George Flyod, more specifically, the recording, are what caused the widespread Black Lives Matter protests over the summer. To me, this image is important for the archive because it shows the significance of this event in 2020, because it shook the world, not even just the US, and that support for the movement and support for justice is being called for from ~1.3k miles away. The video was spread over social media, which allowed for it to reach that level of audience that it was exposed to.
• 2020-07-03

  Tweet from Amy Morrin Bello - State Representative in the 28th District.

  This tweet is referring to an incident that occurred when the Wethersfield Historical Society put out a Facebook message about how a Black Lives Matter poster was taken down from their building by a town employee, and how they are an apolitical institution. They mentioned they kept the poster for their own archives, however the backlash came at their wording about being ‘political’ and how Black Lives Matter isn’t a political movement, it is a human rights issue. This item is really interesting, as the historical society is preserving the poster to fill archival silences, and keep a record of current events, however, they are faced with backlash from people who believe that they are not being ethical due to them trying to hide the exposing of human rights violations, which is one of the roles in being an ethical archivist.
• 2020-07-16

  Grievances From the Members of Our Community

  This item/document is an example of how my generation is attempting to make change in society. This document is a collection of grievances and injustices that people faced throughout their years in the Wethersfield school district. This document was submitted to the superintendent of schools and Wethersfield High School administration. I think this item exemplifies multiple criteria because it gives a voice to marginalized groups and their mistreatment in the school system, it was a project undertaken by young student activists, and it could lead to possible changes in the future.
• 
  2020-08-08

  “Black Lives Matter” sign

  This sign is important because it is the main focus of my entire project and archive. Signs have become a major part of this pandemic, whether they are signs promoting a social message (such as this one), one supporting healthcare workers, or signs that are just motivational, signs have become the way of spreading hope and awareness during the pandemic. This item falls under the criteria of showing future historians a significant moment in the year 2020, as the entirety of the summer consisted of Black Lives Matter protests. The Black Lives Matter movement also was a way for the voices of black people to be amplified and speak up against police brutality and injustice.
• 
  2020-12-07

  History Repeating Itself

  I wrote this exam for my History 103 class at Niagara University as my final project. https://www.un.org/en/chronicle/article/learning-slavery-legacy-slave-trade-modern-society https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.5323/jafriamerhist.97.1-2.0110?seq=1#metadata_info_tab_contents https://digpodcast.org/2020/01/26/slave-contraband-refugee-the-end-of-slavery-in-the-united-states/
• 
  2020-05-26

  Black Lives Matter Cincinnati

  Kristin braved the risks of contracting Covid-19 to join Black Lives Matter protesters all over the United States in the wake of the death of George Floyd.
• 
  2020-05-31

  Black Lives Matter in North Dakota

  After the George Floyd murder, citizens in Minot, ND put together a protest and vigil for Mr. Floyd at Oak Park in Minot, ND. Minneapolis is a mere eight hours from Minot and there were many people affected by Floyds murder in North Dakota.
• 
  2020-06

  BLM Protest During the Pandemic

  A friend, who is to remain anonymous but offered a photo, lives in Washington D.C. and attended a BLM protest there. I asked her to share her experiences. “it probably didn’t move the needle anywhere, but I’m glad I went. The energy and atmosphere were... it’s hard for me to describe. After the sun went down it felt like a street fair, a party. During the day it was passion. The whole time there was a strong feel of togetherness”
• 
  2020-11-06

  My Part for Social Justice

  The photograph is from Presidential election results won't stop Seattle BLM protests by David Kroman for Crosscut and was taken by Jovelle Tamayo of Crosscut during a Black Lives Matter protest on election night, 3 November 2020, in Seattle, WA. The article states no matter who wins the presidential election Social Justice protests will not stop. My experience throughout this year during the pandemic and Social Justice movements has been silent. Maybe I feel that my voice will not be heard but I do fear that if I do not say something, I’m hurting the movement for Social Justice. Social Justice movements will continue whatever the election results may be and inequality surrounding diversity will still exist too. Black Lives Matter has continued to spread its resolve for Social Justice, and I know my silence will not continue. Social Justice occurs and is a presence in our society today. It is up to the individual to make their decision to say something, but it will be present until changed.
• 
  2020-06-01

  Mayor of Phoenix in support of the movement

  This screenshot is a statement that was released by the Mayor of Phoenix during the Black Lives Matter movement. In this statement the mayor explains how she is on their side and supports the peaceful protests for social justice. She also goes on to explain that the groups that are rioting and looting the city are not affiliated with those who are peacefully protesting, those are two separate groups.
• 
  2020-06-18

  St. Mary's Response to Racial Injustice: Email from President Thomas Mengler

  The object is an email from St. Mary's University President Thomas Mengler recognized Juneteenth stating that campus will be closed that Friday, June 19th, 2020, for prayer and reflection on racial justice and racism in the U.S. In the email, President Mengler acknowledges the murder of George Floyd to reflect on during the summer of mass protests and the Black Lives Matter movement. The campus community is also called to action with upcoming initiatives to create an "anti-racist" university. Dialogue and action are said to occur and relate to the Mariniast belief and tradition to act for the common good. The email represents a significant time within our pandemic year, which was the death of George Floyd that influenced mass protests and greater momentum for the existing Black Lives Matter, demanding the police be defunded. The email portrays how St.Mary's as an institution has reflected on the national issue and its influence on Marianist culture and call to action.
• 
  2020-06-02

  Racism Caught on Cell Phone

  This cartoon drawn by Michael de Adder was posted on Twitter in response to the murder of George Floyd being caught on cell phone camera. It highlights the racism that is seen by the majority of the public versus what minorities experience in their everyday lives.
• 
  2020-06-04

  Health Officials Agree With Protests.

  This article is about public health officials urging people to join the fight for social justice. While the health officials state that everyone involved needs to be aware of the risks and take precautions, now is the time to demand change and join in solidarity with those affected by racial injustice. This post demonstrates that during the COVID-19 pandemic, health officials were agreeing with protests and the Black Lives Matter movement. This article is important because it demonstrates that social justice is needed yesterday, today, and tomorrow no matter what is happening.
• 2020-06

  A Difference Between Blue Lives and Black Lives.

  This experience was a phone call I had with my mother in June. My mother is a corrections officer and works in the local jail. Amidst the height of the Black Lives Matter protests, I was discussing with my mom that I value her and the work she does, yet I fully support the BLM movement and the demand for justice. The conversation shifted to white privilege and I shared my ideas on what white privilege is and how it shows up. Towards the end of the conversation, my mother stated that she should be able to wear her uniform in public without being criticized, judged, or feeling unsafe, and how it was ‘unfair’ that the BLM movement targeted police officers. My response was, “at least you have the option to take your uniform and feel safe, whereas black people do not have that option.”
• 
  2020-07-01

  Taking Action

  This post was the first story I read regarding the murder of Elijah McClain. I was shocked that I found out about it through my friend’s instagram and not the news. This post showed me the power of social media and need for social awareness. In my view, this post indicates an additional way individuals are seeking social justice amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
• 
  2020-10-11

  The Justice for George Floyd Information Map

  As a librarian who works alot with maps, I am very impressed with this site: Justice for George Floyd. This is a way for anyone who wants to protest in the greater NYC area to keep track of upcoming and past events. You can also sign up and add your own events, which will then appear with a description link and an appropriate protesting icon on the map.
• 
  2020-09-08

  Black Lives On the Bottom of America's Totem Pole

  This essay was produced as a part of the American Studies program at California High School in San Ramon, California. The essay is in response to the prompt "Is America currently living up to its core values?" This essay argues that black people are a key example to why America is not fulfilling to the country it seems to be. It also includes references to the following modern events: the Black Lives Matter Movement and police brutality.
• 
  2020-09-08

  Are American Values Being Upheld Essay 2020 American Studies

  This essay was produced as a part of the American Studies program at California High School in San Ramon, California. The essay is in response to the prompt "Is America currently living up to its core values?" This essay argues that America is not living up to its core ideals of treating everyone equally and being a model society because of discrimination towards minorities and mishandling of the Covid-19 pandemic. It also includes references to the following modern events: systemic racism, black lives matter movement, covid 19 pandemic, and current presidency.
• 
  2020-03-30

  Fighting for Equality during a Pandemic.

  Back in March 2020, when we were first placed under quarantine, I was scared. I decided that in order to protect myself and the ones I care about, that it was better to stay home. I got my food delivered, if I had to go out, I made sure that I had my 'N95' mask, face sheild and gloves, took all the necessary precautions. Towards the ended of may, when the police shooting started happening again. I realized that even though we are in a pandemic the world hasn't stopped moving like I had, people were fighting for their brothers, sister, and families lives. They weren't fighting for better health care nor more food. They were risking their lives to protest against police brutality in their communities, and everywhere in the world. For the first time in months, I choose to get up and leave my little street, and join the people who were fighting for Black Lives. I found this so interesting, because no one could have told me that I would be marching through NYC during a pandemic. I wasn't only risking my health by protesting, but also my life. I'd seen the news showing the violent protests, cops body slamming people, tear gas in the air, and most importantly people showing solidarity to fight for what was right. And that when I realized time doesn't stop, because you do.
• 
  2020-06-05

  If You See Me Stealing a Penguin, Mind Your Business

  During the first few days of the Black Lives Matter Protests, there was looting and rioting in some cities. This meme is a humorous statement about that looting. The creator claims he/she wants to steal a penguin if looting starts in Boston. Mind your business if you see him walking out holding one.
• 
  2020-06-07

  A Beautiful Wedding Amid a Black Lives Matter Protest in Philadelphia

  In the middle of a big BLM protest in Philadelphia, a couple got married. She wore a white wedding dress and he was in a tuxedo. They struck a powerful pose and the whole event was tremendously moving and beautiful.
• 
  2020-06-29

  Virtual Racing

  As a runner, a personal loss for me was my racing season. Though I’m not an elite runner, competitive running is a very important part of my life. In April, I discovered a virtual 19K, which I entered and completed, and thought the coronavirus medal was an interesting artifact of this experience. In May, as racially motivated murders became part of the public consciousness, I was happy to see one of the organizations I race with (Rock It Racing) was hosting a virtual “Rock it for Justice” race. No awards were given, participants were asked to wear black while running and all donations (including from purchasing shirts) were given to the Equal Justice Initiative. I signed myself and my 3rd grader up, and it was a great conversation starter for talking about issues of race inequity and incarceration with my daughter. On a lighter note, the AP Read (for scoring AP exams) was done entirely virtually this year. A “lazy marathon” was held for Readers who ran, biked, or swam certain distances during the 9 day read. It took me 2 days to hit 26.2 miles!
• 
  2020-06-19

  Bathroom Black Lives Matter LGBTQ+ Amazon Announcement

  In this Announcement posted above the urinal in the Amazon Warehouse bathroom, the link between Black Lives Matter, the LGBTQ+ movement, and Amazon is made explicit. Clearly Amazon is actively choosing to endorse the Black Lives Matter movement in light of the fact that protesters were risking people's lives, according to the narrative, because many were not social-distancing during their protests, thus putting the public i.e. the elderly at risk. So this stance is noteworthy.
• 
  2020-06-06

  Scenes of the Crowds as They Protested in June 2020

  These are aerial shots of the crowds in some of the cities where the Black Lives Matters protests were held. The crowds were unprecedented and the footage of them are dramatic.
• 
  2020-06-10

  Nebraska National Guard Soldiers Test Positive for COVID-19 Following Protests

  A number of Nebraska National Guard soldiers have tested positive for COVID-19 following missions to assist law enforcement amid protests in Omaha and Lincoln. None of the affected soldiers have been hospitalized and all are isolating in their homes. Protests have flared across the country following the death of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer, while in custody. Many of the protests have individuals packed tightly in large groups, many not wearing masks or following other recommended guidelines to slow the spread of the virus.
• 
  2020-06-09

  #NoJusticeNoPeace Murals Blanket Downtown Oakland

  Local Bay Area artists are creating powerful social justice themed murals on the plywood used to board up Oakland businesses that were impacted in the chaos of the protests that began May 29, 2020 and are continuing over two weeks later. The art is capturing specific and unique elements of the current protests. One mural depicts a protestor wearing a mask as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Black Lives Matter and George Floyd are the subjects of many of the pieces. One large piece of art includes an image of Brianna Noble, who rode a horse during the May 29, 2020 protests. Another includes the names of victims of police brutality; visible are Oscar Grant, Sandra Bland and Breonna Taylor. Finally, one mural reads "Oakland Is Still Proud."
• 
  2020-06-06

  Teens Organize Golden Gate Bridge Protests

  The Golden Gate Bridge protest, that occured on June 6, 2020, was entirely organized and lead by two local East Bay youths. Tiana Day and Mimi Zoilia secured the permits that led to the first ever Black Lives Matter protest on the iconic San Francisco landmark. The outpouring of support for the pair has been strong. They have inspired youth across the San Francisco Bay Area to speak out for justice. Tiana's speech reveals the realities of growing up Black in what many consider to be an incredibly liberal region of the United States.
• 
  2020-06-07

  Stay Home, Wash Your Hands, BLM

  I posted the original of this poster a few weeks ago, and I was happy to see that it has been modified with "BLM - Spectemur agendo," the second part of which seems to be Latin meaning, "Let us be judged by our acts."
• 
  2020-05-29

  The Class of 2020

  This is a screen shot of a post shared by Dyami Thomas. She does not name the young man, but says he was unable to graduate because of Covid-19 so he took a photo in his cap and gown as the protests took place behind him. As a teacher, it has been incredibly difficult to watch my students struggle during what would have been the time of their lives, graduating and starting their next chapters. I just received news that several of my students lost their jobs and returned to work in the fields with their families because they needed the income. Some of my students are attending protests daily for BLM. I worry for them all, even this young man in the photo I have never met. They are experiencing the most turbulent year I have ever seen, and they embarking on their adult lives amidst the chaos.
• 
  2020-06-07

  Hipocresía domestica

  Un dibujo político que muestra un hombre con un laptop investigando o publicando sobre el tema #BlackLivesMatter, al fondo se ve una mujer de la clase baja, seguro una empleada que trabaja en la casa. Esta sentada y se ve la escoba, cosas de limpieza, su cama y un tanque de agua. Se trata de la hipocresía que la gente tiene, y la realidad que hay mucho discriminación según líneas de clase, genero, y raza.
• 
  2020-06-01

  Lights Off

  Amid the COVID19 pandemic, many people peacefully protested with gloves and masks, the racial injustices happening in the United States. After days of Black Lives Matter movement protest against police brutality towards Black folks, peaceful protesters gathered in front of White House. They were confronted with police in riot gear. All the exterior lights of the White House were shut off and the President was rumored to take shelter inside the bunker.
• 
  2020-06-04

  Support Black trans women and trans women of color - Iyanna Dior

  IYANNA DIOR, 21, A TRANS BLACK WOMAN IN MINNEAPOLIS WAS BRUTALLY ATTACKED ON MONDAY BY A MOB OF PEOPLE MAINLY CONSISTING OF MEN AND SHE DESERVES OUR SUPPORT. —— PLEASE DONATE TO BLACK TRANS WOMEN AND TRANS WOMEN OF COLOR. PLEASE DONATE TO THE GO FUND ME IN MY BIO.
• 
  2020-06-04

  Protesting safely

  This post probably applies to the Peruvian community living in the United States. The post reads, "stay safe," and advises people what to wear and take to a protest. It shows that Peruvians and other people of color identify with the #BlackLivesMatter movement and are part of the protests asking for accountability and strucutral change from police.
• 
  2020-06-03

  Black Lives Matter, pero pareces cholo

  This image better describes some of the hypocrisy surrounding the social media support for #BlackLivesMatter. I'm glad that people in Peru are paying attention, but statements like "racism doesn't exist in Peru," belie the horrible truth. Racism is all around us whether in the U.S. or Peru. This meme in particular points out some of the controversial media images like La Paisana Jacinta that embody and make light of race and class differences.
• 
  2020-05-25

  2020: A never-ending series of issues

  This meme highlights the never-ending onslaught of issues we as a society are facing every day. In only 2020, we've had escalated tensions between US and North Korea, COVID-19, the brutal murder of George Floyd, riots and murder hornets. And it's only June!
• 2020-05-29

  May 2020

  This is the story of the riots and protests following the murder of George Floyd by 4 police officers. This shows that even in a pandemic people are still willing to fight the unjust and racist police system, even preparing to get tear gassed during the protests and filming it all to account for any injustice acts by the police. It especially shows the reality of having such an incompetent, unjust, racist president at this time; he is someone who refers to white protesters protesting the stay at home orders as "very nice people" while referring to black protesters fighting for human rights and equality "THUGS." Not only this but he publicly stated on twitter that the police are allowed to shoot protesters, threatening them basically.