#Darnella Frazier

[normanthedove]

TAMPA BAY PAIN DR. QING MCGAHA, MD., INDICTMENT AND CONVICTION RAISES ALARMING CONCERNS AND SUSPICIONS OF AUSA KENNETH POLITE's OPIOID TASK FORCE LEGITIMACY (THE AMA MUST GET INVOLVED)

A USA Federal jury found Dr. Qing McGaha, MD, guilty of 14 counts of unlawful drug distribution, four counts of money laundering, and one count of filing a false tax return, United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced. The regulation at the heart of this case, 21 C.F.R. § 1306.04(a), provides: “A prescription for a controlled substance to be effective must be issued for a legitimate medical purpose by an individual practitioner acting in the usual course of his professional practice.”

“WE ARE NOT POWERLESS“ “HEAR OUR PRAYERS; GIVE US THE STRENGTH TO WIN THIS WAR AGAINST EVIL” “WE ARE NOT POWERLESS, AND THROUGH OUR VIDEOS, WRITINGS, AND PHOTOGRAPHS, WE WILL EXPOSE THE ABUSES AND TYRANNY OF DEA-DOJ, JUST AS THE VIDEO WAS RECORDED BY THE CELL PHONE CAMERA OF YOUNG DARNELLA FRAZIER, BORE WITNESS TO THE MURDER OF GEORGE FLOYD THE BLOG youarewithinthenorms.com BARES WITNESS AND…

[doglvrsworld]

Cell phones have become important tools for activism. Explain how cell phones give power to individuals to document and share social injustices and enable movements like #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo to gain momentum. How does this ability change who has the power in society? Any examples should be from the last 5 years.

Cell phones have become crucial tools for modern activism, enabling individuals to document and share social injustices instantaneously. This transformation in how we communicate and mobilize has fundamentally altered the way movements spread and influence change. A well-known example is the viral video of George Floyd’s murder in 2020, recorded by Darnella Frazier. Frazier’s cell phone footage, which showed a Minneapolis police officer kneeling on Floyd’s neck (Pew Research Center, 2020), quickly went viral, sparking global outrage. The video was shared across social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter, and it served as the inspiration for the making of the #BlackLivesMatter movement. The video became a rallying cry for protests against police brutality, not just in the United States but around the world, with demonstrations in over 60 countries (Pew Research Center, 2020). In the wake of Floyd’s death, the #BlackLivesMatter hashtag became a powerful tool for social justice activists. It reached its peak with 8.8 million tweets on a single day (Pew Research Center, 2020), illustrating the immense influence that social media has in amplifying calls for justice and reform (Pew Research Center, 2020).

Social media platforms, powered by the ability to instantly share information, have allowed movements like #BlackLivesMatter to gain widespread traction, particularly among young people. The hashtag became a key component of the protests. This is not the only instance where cell phones and social media have had a profound impact. Movements like #MeToo has also gained popularity through the use of these technologies. #MeToo empowered individuals to share their personal stories of sexual harassment and assault, providing a platform for those who had previously been silenced (Canadian Women's Movement, n.d). This movement reached millions of people around the world, with people, such as actresses and activists, using their voices to call attention to the severity of sexual abuse and harassment. The ability to anonymously or publicly share these stories on social media has forced accountability, with many high-profile figures facing consequences such as resignations, trials, and policy changes (Canadian Women's Movement, n.d). As a result, the #MeToo movement has had effect in the workplace, as it has forced companies, organizations, and governments to reassess their policies on harassment and abuse (Canadian Women's Movement, n.d).

Therefore, the ability of cell phones to record and share information about social injustices has fundamentally altered the dynamics of activism. By transferring power from traditional gatekeepers, such as media outlets and political institutions, to individuals, cell phones empower marginalized populations to raise their voices and demand change. Viral videos, like the one documenting George Floyd’s murder, bypass institutional safeguards, exposing systemic injustices and igniting movements around the world. Through these technologies, activists are able to directly challenge authority and compel organizations to confront structural inequalities, making cell phones an indispensable tool in modern social justice movements.

There are two images below, the first one is an example of someone posting with #Blacklivesmatter to raise awareness for other people of colour who continued to be oppressed after the George Floyd incident.

The second one is a post under the #MeToo movement.

Works Cited

"Black Lives Matter Surges on Twitter After George Floyd’s Death." Pew Research Center, 2020

www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2020/06/10/blacklivesmatter-surges-on-twitter-after-george-floyds- death/.

"Metoo Movement in Canada." Canadian Women's Foundation, 2021

www.canadianwomen.org/the-facts/the-metoo-movement-in-canada/.

[gillm120]

Black Lives Matter: Darnella Frazier, Citizen Journalism and Breonna Taylor

1. What are your thoughts about Darnella Frazier's role as a bystander who chose to document a crime and became a brave citizen journalist in the process? What would you do in a similar situation?

Darnella Frazier's role in documenting George Floyd's murder was crucial. As a bystander, her decision to film the crime with her phone transformed her into a citizen journalist, capturing one of the most pivotal moments in the modern fight for racial justice. Her recording became undeniable evidence of police brutality and played a key role in spurring the global Black Lives Matter movement, mobilizing millions, and holding law enforcement accountable. It also revealed the power of everyday individuals in our digital age where moments of injustice can be captured and shared widely, prompting societal reflection and reform.

If I were in a similar situation, I would hope to act with the same level of courage and presence of mind. Documenting the event, ensuring personal safety, and trying to de-escalate or get help would be key priorities. However, the emotional, legal, and ethical consequences are complex.

2. Have you participated in Black Lives Matter marches and protests? Please share your experiences and your photographs in your post and in the thread below.

Yes I have, I went to a few Black Lives Matter marches across the Bay Area in the summer of 2020. I've been to marches in San Francisco, Oakland, and San Mateo.

3. Choose one of the following young women BLM leaders who began their activism as teenagers and write a one-paragraph bio about them. Post a one-line summary in the thread: Zee Thomas, Shayla Turner, Brianna Chandler, Tiana Day.

Tiana Day is a passionate young activist who became a prominent voice in the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020. At the age of 17, she led a major protest across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, which drew national attention for its peaceful demonstration and impactful message. Her leadership came spontaneously when a fellow organizer couldn’t continue planning the march, she stepped in, rallying thousands of participants. Day has since founded the nonprofit Youth Advocates for Change, which empowers young people to take leadership roles in advocating for social justice. Through her work, she’s become a role model for youth activism, speaking on issues of racial inequality, gender justice, and environmental sustainability. I chose her because she is also a Bay Area native!

4. What is your assessment of Amy Sherald's portrait of Breonna Taylor and the ensuing exhibition held at the Speed Museum? Does it do her justice? (see video clip)

Amy Sherald's portrait of Breonna Taylor, unveiled at the Speed Art Museum, is a powerful tribute that captures Taylor's humanity while reflecting on her tragic death. Sherald, known for her distinctive use of gray skin tones to universalize her subjects and emphasize their inner life, portrays Breonna in a turquoise gown against a serene blue backdrop, exuding dignity and grace. This portrayal avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on Breonna's individuality and importance as a person, not just as a symbol of racial injustice. Sherald's minimalist approach contrasts with the horrific violence that took Taylor's life, making her loss even more poignant.

[grumpygirlblog]

Political movements through social media... hashtags... videos... faces...How are they important?

On May 25, 2020, a man lost his life on accord to police brutality. His name is George Floyd. The officers were called on Floyd as he was accused of using a counterfeit $20 bill.

This call led to his death.

Officer Derek Chauvin knelt on George Floyd's neck for over nine minutes while George pleaded for his life. This was captured in a video by a woman named Darnella Frazier. If it were not for her and her phone, this case might not have received the justice deserved. The officer's plea was different from the real story - the story that was captured on video.

Darnella Frazier received a Pulitzer Prize award for her act of courage, and it is well deserved. In a situation where one feels helpless, when the people you thought were meant to help you are literally killing you, it makes sense to freeze or not know how to act. However, Frazier jumped to action and documented this crime. She gathered the evidence to provide justice.

I honestly do not know how I would have responded in a similar situation, which makes Frazier's act even more critical. It doesn't sound like something many civilians would do. But civilians need to document things. It is the most important way to stand up against corruption, in this instance, the police.

Images I took during a BLM protest in West Palm Beach, Florida, 2020.

I remember these moments very vividly. I had never been surrounded by more people filled with intense, passionate emotions about the same issue. I felt energy encased in love that swarmed the air. Everyone was to help, and everyone was to care for everyone. It is heartbreaking to see these acts of resistance framed in a violent light. We just want our voices to be heard, to be cared for, to care for others. I am incredibly privileged that I can use my voice to advocate for individuals, even when the issues faced do not directly pertain to me as a white woman. These issues affect everyone, myself included because a world without peace for all is not a world worth living in.

TIANA DAY:

Tiana Day is an activist and advocate for social justice. She is known primarily for her work fighting against police brutality and systemic racism. She gained recognition through her involvement in various movements, such as:

Youth Advocates For Change. Founder & Executive Director. Jun 2020 - Present.

Urban Peace Movement. Intern. Oct 2021 - Jun 2022.

BLM 2020 - Present.

She uses her gained traction to highlight the experiences of marginalized communities. She educates students, encouraging "innovative and engaging outlets" to promote progressive thinking and behavior through journalism and social activism. She is an example of a strong woman figure using her knowledge to educate and speak to many groups, encouraging and fighting for change.

Breonna Taylor, by Amy Sherald.

After the brutal killing of Taylor, Amy Sherald created a piece for the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Sherald made this piece in response to the uproar in violence against women and police brutality. She painted Taylor as the face of this movement. There was great intention behind each decision made in this piece.

"Before what would become her first posthumous portrait, Sherald spent time speaking with Taylor’s mother, Tamika Palmer, and learned of Taylor’s interest in fashion. As a result, Sherald commissioned a Black female designer to create the dress for the portrait. " - NMAAHC

She maintained Taylors strong image with her bold sense of fashion and color schemes. It is also important to note that Sherald included an engagement ring on Taylor's finger as a memento for the love Breonna and her partner, Kenneth Walker, shared. She continued to humanize Breonna even after her death, unlike the policemen who dehumanized Taylor's living soul.

[octaviov-girlinnovator]

Week 7-BLM

Darnella Frazier’s choice to document George Floyd’s murder was remarkable. She showed incredible bravery and presence of mind at the age of barely 17. She was changed from a bystander to a crucial witness in a worldwide movement by the act of filming, which wasn’t only a casual one. In addition to bringing Floyd justice, her video’s unquestionable proof of police violence sparked massive demonstrations and discussions about systemic racism and accountability. Additionally, Frazier’s contribution demonstrates the growing influence of citizen journalism. Bypassing institutional gatekeepers, regular individuals with smartphones can record abuses of authority during emergencies. Her boldness made sure that the truth could not be denied or hidden, even if her choice came at a great personal cost and she has been open about the trauma and scrutiny she has endured. I would want to show bravery as she did if I were in her shoes, but it's crucial to recognize how difficult and frightening those situations can be. In addition to the immediate anxiety of repercussions, there is also the following emotional strain. Since every circumstance is unique and it's difficult to foresee how fear and adrenaline might affect me in the moment, I'd like to think that I would at least try to help, whether it be by recording, intervening if it’s safe, or phoning for assistance.

I participated in one of the major protests in downtown Los Angeles that were going off each weekend for a while and I will say, it was nothing like I have witnessed before. There were so many military personnels that it was a bit frightening only because of what I saw them doing in the same area a few days prior. There were gas bombs getting tossed around that I myself had to prepare for that possibility. That, as well as the fact that there were major rioting happening as well. Though it wasn’t in downtown but rather Santa Monica, it doesn’t mean it couldn’t spread into the downtown area at any time. Overall, the experience was very empowering to be able to see that many people come together to look justice in the eye and fight back for what is right. It’s very inspirational to be able to witness such a thing and be able to say I was there first hand to be a part of the fight for justice. Sadly I don’t have pictures since they were lost from my phone being stolen in the past, but the memories live forever.

Passionate activist Tiana Day, who hails from San Ramon, California, gained notoriety at the age of 17 by leading a crucial Black Lives Matter march over the Golden Gate Bridge in June 2020. Tiana initially joined the campaign as a participant, but when she recognized a chance to elevate young voices and demand racial justice, she took charge of organizing. She organized a march that attracted thousands of participants and represented a cry for reform and unity. She went on to establish the NGO Youth Advocates for Change with the goal of enabling youth to take up social justice problems. By ensuring that marginalized voices, especially those of young Black women, are heard and elevated, Tiana's work remains centered on intersectional activism.

Breonna Taylor’s picture by Amy Sherald, which is on display at the Speed Art Museum in Louisville, has received a lot of attention for its respectful and symbolic depiction of Taylor that captures both her humanity and the structural injustices she symbolizes for. By dressing Taylor in a unique turquoise gown that was created to highlight her serene gaze and ethereal appearance, Sherald worked closely with Taylor's family to capture her spirit and highlight her passion for fashion and beauty. That alone demonstrates the dedication to revealing Breonna’s genuine aura so that everyone can witness how a lovely life had been taken away by law enforcement. With significant community cooperation, the Speed Museum developed the related exhibition, Promise, Witness, Remembrance. The show, which was curated by Allison Glenn, sought to both commemorate Taylor’s legacy and offer an environment for group discussion on racial injustice. It truly connects with the portrait to provide a powerful message about wrongdoing occurring just outside our doors and the importance of addressing it immediately. Sherald’s painting, along with the exhibition, have received praise for their capacity to humanize Taylor’s tale while relating it to broader campaigns for justice. I genuinely think that the image honors Taylor as a person whose life was taken too soon, transcending her status as a symbol, and encouraging continued activism and discussion about structural change in America.

[minguchoiparsonsparis]

Black Lives Matter: Darnella Frazier, Citizen Journalism and Breonna Taylor

1. What are your thoughts about Darnella Frazier's role as a bystander who chose to document a crime and became a brave citizen journalist in the process? What would you do in a similar situation?

Darnella Frazier’s role as a citizen journalist was courageous and pivotal in seeking justice for George Floyd. Her quick decision to film such a horrific event demonstrated the power of everyday people in holding authorities accountable. If I were in a similar situation, I hope I would also find the courage to document and expose the truth, knowing how vital it is to stand up for justice, even when it’s complicated.

2. Have you participated in Black Lives Matter marches and protests?

I actively participated in the Black Lives Matter movement through social media, raising awareness about the cause and helping spread important information. In addition, I organized fundraising efforts in South Korea and donated to the Black Lives Matter foundation to support its mission. While I couldn't physically join protests, I felt it was important to contribute to the movement from wherever I was, helping amplify the message globally.

3. Choose one of the following young women BLM leaders and write a bio: Tiana Day

Tiana Day is a young Black Lives Matter leader who was spotlighted at just 17 when she organized a protest across San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Inspired by the outcry following George Floyd's death, she mobilized hundreds of people to join her, showing how young voices can lead in the fight for justice. Her activism continues to focus on youth empowerment and equality, motivating other young leaders to take action. 

Summary: Tiana Day led a major BLM protest at 17, inspiring youth activism for racial justice.

4. What is your assessment of Amy Sherald's portrait of Breonna Taylor and the ensuing exhibition held at the Speed Museum?

Amy Sherald’s portrait of Breonna Taylor captures her in a peaceful, dignified way, presenting her as more than a victim but a full, respected person. The exhibition at the Speed Museum is powerful, as it honors Breonna’s memory and keeps her story alive in a way that encourages reflection on racial injustice. Sherald’s work does justice to Breonna by centering her humanity and legacy, making it a profound piece of social commentary that continues to resonate with viewers.

[girlinnovators-lillian]

Black Lives Matter: Darnella Frazier, Citizen Journalism and Breonna Taylor

Darnella Frazier

Darnella Frazier is a hero, I think what she did was really incredible and prompted a significant result in George Floyds justice. However, part of me feels a deep sadness for her, hearing her testimony about how she felt guilty that she didn't do more in the moment really stuck me. She lived through such a life altering event and I hope that she can see what she did was heroic. I think I also would tape an event happening like this, but I also think similar to Darnella I wouldn't necessarily feel safe intervening further. Its such a complex situation and I think she is a hero for her contribution, wishing her well.

Black Lives Matter marches and protests?

I have participated in Black Lives Matter marches. These photos are from 2020 my friends and I participated in the demonstrations on behalf of the murder of George Floyd. Having this experience was really impactful, being gathered with so many other enraged people is such an emotional experience. I think particularly being that this was during covid it really highlights how important we all felt is was to go out and speak out.

Tiana Day

Tiana Day is a leading American activist and the founder of the non-profit organization "Youth Advocates for Change." This incredible young women is only 20 years old and a social advocate for many issues, but is particularly known for her work with Black Lives Matter. Tiana led the first Black Lives Matter march across the Golden Gate bridge at only age 17, this is noted to be one of the largest protests of the movements happening in 2020. Tianas public speaking, general leadership, and community outreach has inspired countless young individuals to speak out on issues like gender equality, climate justice, and mental health awareness. Her non profit organization is centered around creating a space for youth voices to make change, where they are equipped with all the tools to create meaningful change. Her dedication to social activism has made her a prominent and inspirational voice in the ongoing battle for social justice.

Amy Sherald's portrait of Breonna Taylor

Amy Sherald's portrait of Breonna Taylor is simple, but beautiful. I don't think that such a simple portrait could do the loss of a life 'justice' however I do think the way the museum hosted the entire exhibit was a really meaningful. I thought it was really great that they worked alongside Breonna Taylor's mother to make sure they were honoring her daughter properly. I also thought it was really great that the museum waived their admission fee and extended their hours for this exhibit. By doing this I they were really able to open up a space for people not only to mourn Breonna and show respects to her life, but also a free way to educate yourself on the critical issues at hand. I believe that learning about political issues through art can have a profound effect, and i appreciate the detailed and thoughtful elements they incorporated into the exhibition.

[girl-innovators]

Week 7

1. Darnella Frazier's Role as a Bystander and Citizen Journalist:

Darnella Frazier’s decision to film George Floyd’s murder was incredibly brave and transformative. As a bystander, she could have chosen to walk away, but instead, she used her phone to document a crime that ultimately became the key piece of evidence in Derek Chauvin’s conviction. Frazier’s actions remind us of the power of citizen journalism in holding authorities accountable when formal institutions fail.

If I were in a similar situation, I would hope to show the same courage. The idea of speaking truth to power is daunting, especially in a system where injustice is prevalent, as I have seen in India too, where marginalized communities, including Dalits and other minorities, face systemic oppression and violence. Documenting and raising awareness in such moments can be life-changing, not only for the victim but for society as a whole.

2. Participation in BLM Marches and Protests:

Although I have never participated in a Black Lives Matter protest, I deeply resonate with the movement's call for justice. Growing up in India, I witnessed and experienced forms of racism and colorism, where societal biases favor lighter skin tones and discriminate against darker-skinned people. The BLM movement is a powerful reminder that fighting racial injustice is a global issue, and the systems of oppression affecting Black communities in the U.S. mirror the struggles faced by minorities worldwide. Even without participating in a march, the awareness and discussions that BLM has sparked reach beyond borders, influencing how we think about justice and equality.

3. Bio of Zee Thomas:

Zee Thomas is a teenage activist from Nashville, Tennessee, who became an influential voice in the Black Lives Matter movement at the age of 15. She organized peaceful protests in her city, advocating against racial injustice and police brutality. Thomas is committed to amplifying the voices of young people and people of color, believing that real change starts with grassroots activism. Through her work, she shows that age is not a barrier to leadership in the fight for social justice.

4. Amy Sherald’s Portrait of Breonna Taylor:

Amy Sherald’s portrait of Breonna Taylor is a powerful tribute that captures Taylor’s humanity and dignity, rather than focusing solely on her tragic death. Sherald’s style, known for its use of grayscale skin tones, allows the viewer to focus on Taylor’s essence as a person, not just a victim of violence. The exhibition at the Speed Museum provided a platform to reflect on the systemic issues of police brutality and to honor Taylor’s life beyond her unjust death. I believe Sherald’s work does justice to Breonna Taylor by preserving her memory in a way that evokes respect and empathy, reminding the world that Black women’s lives, their stories, and their humanity must be seen and valued.

[odinsblog]

Link to the Go Fund Me for Leneal Frazier:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-raise-money-for-leneal-frazier?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer

[photoinspirationandideas]

[normanthedove]

TAMPA BAY PAIN DR. QING MCGAHA, MD., INDICTMENT AND CONVICTION RAISES ALARMING CONCERNS AND SUSPICIONS OF AUSA KENNETH POLITE's OPIOID TASK FORCE LEGITIMACY (THE AMA MUST GET INVOLVED)

As a law enforcement agency, DEA is not in a position to authorize or dictate what a doctor prescribes to a patient. DEA cannot grant waivers of any kind when it comes to the practice of medicine because no sick waiver exists. As the United States competent body charged with managing controlled substances and chemicals for scientific, medical, research, and industrial applications, DEA regulates the flow of controlled substances, not the practice of medicine. Congress determined Federal law enforcement agencies are unqualified to determine whether drugs “have a useful and legitimate medical purpose and are necessary to maintain the health and general welfare of the American people.” 21 U.S.C. § 801(1).

“WE ARE NOT POWERLESS“ “HEAR OUR PRAYERS; GIVE US THE STRENGTH TO WIN THIS WAR AGAINST EVIL” “WE ARE NOT POWERLESS, AND THROUGH OUR VIDEOS, WRITINGS, AND PHOTOGRAPHS, WE WILL EXPOSE THE ABUSES AND TYRANNY OF DEA-DOJ, JUST AS THE VIDEO WAS RECORDED BY THE CELL PHONE CAMERA OF YOUNG DARNELLA FRAZIER, BORE WITNESS TO THE MURDER OF GEORGE FLOYD THE BLOG youarewithinthenorms.com BARES WITNESS AND…

[sedlex]

Darnella Frazier is the 17-year-old girl who recorded the murder of George Floyd and these are her words one year later.

[quariian]

A 17 year old filmed it despite threats from cops at the time and if it wasn't for that video now we wouldn't be here. I can't imagine how scared she might of been, the trauma she faced, and the horrific memories she'll have for the rest of her life. Darnella Frazier is so brave.

[myrnaminkov]

[goodblacknews]

Katori Hall, Les Payne and Tamara Payne, Darnella Frazier, Wesley Morris and More Win Pulitzer Prizes in 2021

Katori Hall, Les Payne and Tamara Payne, Darnella Frazier, Wesley Morris and More Win Pulitzer Prizes in 2021

by Lori Lakin Hutcherson (@lakinhutcherson) The Pulitzer Prize winners for 2021 were announced today. Notable among them were Katori Hall for Drama for The Hot Wing King, Les Payne and Tamara Payne for Biography for The Dead Are Rising: The Life of Malcolm X, Tania León for Music for Stride, Marcia Chatelain for History for Franchise: The Golden Arches in Black America, Mitchell S. Jackson for…

[occidentaltourist]

becky_foxy_art “Portrait of a Hero, Darnella Frazier” (painted May 29, 2020) 12x12 inch oil on canvas

*

In her own words:

“When I look at George Floyd, I look at my dad. I look at my brothers. I look at my cousins, my uncles, because they’re all Black. I have a Black father. I have a Black brother. I have Black friends. And I look at that, and I look at how that could have been one of them. It’s been nights I stayed up apologizing and apologizing to George Floyd for not doing more and not physically interacting and not saving his life, but it’s like, it’s not what I should have done. It’s what he should have done.”