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Gwen Carr's Tireless Fight for Justice in the Wake of Eric Garner's Death

Wesley Reed

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Published in This Stops Today: Eric Garner S Mother Seeks Justice After Losing Her Son

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On July 17, 2014, a group of New York City police officers approached Eric Garner, a 43-year-old black man, on suspicion of selling untaxed cigarettes. A physical altercation ensued, during which Garner was placed in a chokehold by Officer Daniel Pantaleo. Garner repeatedly said, "I can't breathe," but the officers ignored his pleas and continued to hold him down. Garner died from his injuries shortly after.

This Stops Today: Eric Garner's Mother Seeks Justice after Losing Her Son

by Will Potter

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	220 pages

Garner's death sparked outrage and protests across the country. His mother, Gwen Carr, has been at the forefront of the movement demanding justice for her son. She has spoken out against police brutality, racial profiling, and the lack of accountability for officers who kill unarmed black men.

Carr's journey has been filled with both pain and determination. She has had to relive the horror of her son's death over and over again, but she has never given up on her quest for justice. She has met with politicians, testified before Congress, and spoken at rallies and protests.

In 2015, a grand jury declined to indict Pantaleo on criminal charges. Carr was devastated by the decision, but she vowed to continue fighting. She filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city of New York, and in 2019, the city agreed to pay $5.9 million to settle the case.

Carr has also been instrumental in advocating for changes to the criminal justice system. She has supported legislation to end the use of chokeholds by police, and she has called for more transparency and accountability in police departments.

Carr's work has had a significant impact on the national conversation about race and policing. She has helped to raise awareness of the problem of police brutality, and she has inspired others to speak out against injustice.

Carr's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination. She has shown that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to make a difference. She is a true hero, and her work will continue to inspire others for years to come.

Here are some ways you can support Gwen Carr and her fight for justice:

Donate to her organization, the Eric Garner Foundation
Attend rallies and protests
Contact your elected officials and demand that they support legislation to end police brutality
Educate yourself about the problem of police brutality and racial profiling
Speak out against injustice

This Stops Today: Eric Garner's Mother Seeks Justice after Losing Her Son

by Will Potter

4.6 out of 5