A grand jury’s decision not to indict Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson is continuing to spark national reaction, including here in Atlanta. The controversy started in August after Wilson, a white police officer, shot 18-year-old Michael Brown, who is African American.
Students at several of Atlanta’s historically black colleges and universities rallied in the Center of Clark Atlanta University Wednesday in response to the decision.
Students quietly and peacefully reflected on the grand jury’s decision during a rally held in the center of Clark Atlanta. Many say they’re disappointed and saddened. Several in attendance say the decision makes them feel like in the eyes of the criminal justice system, a black life does not have the same value as a white life.
Clark Atlanta University sophomore Akilai Moyd says, “I’m here because justice was not served for Mike Brown, regardless if Mike Brown did whatever the police said he did to him, he was unarmed. He was not a threat, and the police should have gotten something for what he’s done.”
Brown’s death was also personal to Will Chandler. Chandler is the student government president at Morehouse College and is just a few years older than Brown.
“It could have been me. It could have been my brother. It could have been one of my friends. It definitely hit home.”
Atlanta City Council President Ceasar Mitchell was at the rally and urged students not to resort to violence. He reminded them that Atlanta has a long history of peaceful protests. But he also recalled looting and rioting in the city after the Rodney King verdict.
“But it was time for us at that moment to understand that it was not the answer. It never has been the answer and it never will be the answer.”
Clark Atlanta University President Carlton Brown also urged students to use their feelings to effect change in the criminal justice system and the community around them.
“A big part of the struggle is what you do in the days, weeks, months and years ahead of you.”
Officer Wilson told the grand jury he drew his gun in an act of self-defense.
Meanwhile, witnesses gave differing accounts about whether Brown had his hands up in air or charged back toward Wilson before being fatally shot.
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