Ten Years After Michael Brown's Death, Police Killings Still High

As the anniversary of Michael Brown's death approaches, the conversation surrounding police violence remains urgent. Annissa McCaskill recalls the moment she learned of Brown's tragic shooting by officer Darren Wilson, which ignited nationwide protests and discussions about police reform. In response to the public outcry, former President Obama established a task force to evaluate policing practices across the United States, emphasizing the importance of procedural justice in fostering trust between law enforcement and communities. Despite the implementation of body-worn cameras in 80% of large police departments shortly after Brown's death, many activists argue that these measures have not sufficiently addressed systemic issues. The perceived failures of police reform have led to calls for more radical approaches, including police defunding and abolition. Advocates believe that without significant changes, the cycle of violence and mistrust will continue, as evidenced by ongoing disparities in policing practices, particularly against Black individuals. While some progress has been acknowledged, McCaskill highlights the ongoing pain felt by families affected by police violence. She emphasizes the need for honesty and accountability in addressing these issues, noting that many families are still grieving the loss of loved ones due to police actions. The sentiment remains that while reforms may have been introduced, the fundamental changes required to ensure safety and justice for all have yet to be realized. As the nation reflects on a decade since Brown's death, the struggle for meaningful reform and accountability in policing continues, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of violence and inequality in the criminal justice system.