By: Carlie Bibbs
Hundreds of Lindblom students recently gathered together to protest for an important cause. The protests originally stemmed from all over the country to stand up against the racial inequality of African American males. Victims like Michael Brown, Eric Garner, Tamir Rice, and others were subjected to the violence of police forces. This made Lindblom students want to take their stances on the issue. Although Lindblom staff did not officially support the movement, it was still a success according to students and teachers.
Lindblom senior Joshua Chapman organized the entire protest. Chapman spoke out on the protest saying, “If we don't stand for something, we will fall for anything. I really believe that we as young people have to stand up for ourselves.” Many came out to join the protest as word spread throughout the halls and all over social media. Without the help of any teachers, students organized and promoted the cause in a very effective way. Measures were taken to inform students of the what to do, should they find themselves in trouble with any type of authority.
Fortunately for students, many teachers were in support of the protest after it happened. Social Studies teacher, Mr. Brannigan said, “I was very moved by the student protest. Through their actions and words students conveyed a powerful message about an issue that our country and communities must address. The use of peaceful civil disobedience expressed the importance of this issue to our students, for they were willing to take risks in order to make sure their voices were heard.” This movement will transcend to future Lindblom students and possibly students from other schools to serve as motivation for them to stand up for what they believe in.