"The Police State Has Got to Go": Activists Protest Police Violence in Overtown

More than 45 concerned citizens gathered today for a protest march in Overtown, Florida. It was a demonstration against the Miami Police Department over the murder of an unarmed, black man named Decarlos Moore which occured on Monday, July 5th. According to The Militant, "Moore was unarmed and had come out of his car after being pulled over by the police. The cops claim a computer check of the car Moore was driving came up as a “possible stolen car.” They didn’t complete a full check before stopping him. It turned out the car was not stolen. Officer Marin is on administrative leave, receiving full pay."

The day following the police murder, more than 175 gathered for a community meeting. Tensions were high during the meeting, and today's protest made it clear that the community is still furious. During the protest, chants were lively and spirited, and encouraged bystanders to become active and join the march. Some bystanders actually walked over and joined the march, swelling the number of the concerned protestors. The march proceeded for several blocks toward the Miami Police Headquarters building. Upon arrival, activists lit candles and held a vigil for victims of violence and brutality. "There have been so many deaths," said organizer Renita Holmes, "and we just feel like nobody cares about us."

Highlighting the high number of violent crimes against people (of color) in the community is by no means outlandish, either. So many families have been traumatized by the murder which continually goes unpunished. Miami has a long history of police violence and many believe that what the community really needs right now are activists who are willing to bring the fight for justice home. Today, the fight for justice was brought home by a number of different groups. Among these groups were WAAIVE, South Florida Direct Action, Power U.

Activists from these, and other, groups are planning a subsequent demonstration next week. The protest is being planned for Thursday, July 29th at 5:00PM in Overtown. For more information, contact South Florida Direct Action, or find the protest event page on Facebook.