Throughout the past few years in America, protests against police killings of black men have emerged, but most recently, Charlotte, NC has become a battleground for social justice. Tensions have been growing in Charlotte for years, but they finally hit a breaking point on Tues., Sept. 20..

On Tues., Sep. 20, an unarmed black male by the name of Keith Scott was shot and killed by a police officer. The officer said he had a weapon, but his family has claimed that he had a book and was waiting for his child.

Evidence suggests that Scott was carrying a gun, and he has had a criminal record in the past, as well as a lack of evidence suggesting that a book may have been on scene. Despite the actions of Scott suggesting he had a gun, and the event being captured on a body camera, rioters still claim that it was an act of racism

Rioters took to the streets that night, blocking I-85 near Scott’s apartment. The next day, they proceeded to throw rocks and water bottles at riot officers. During this protest, 26-year-old Justin Carr was shot and killed.

On Thurs., Sept. 22 protesters chanted Justin’s name, believing cops killed the man, while the officers claim that it was another civilian.

Charlotte’s unrest has sparked unrest in other cities, and more and more people have become actively aware of the issue. Even students at our own school have become aware and interested in the topic.

“The issue has become very apparent throughout the United States. In the last year, there were protests here in Cincinnati. I really hope that there is an end to this soon,” said Tanner Brarens, 12

“There is a lot of disunity between races in America. I wish that we could figure out a way to get along with each other,” said Ryan Hertlein, 10

“I think that a lot of what these groups are doing is very extreme, and it won’t do anything to solve the problems that we are facing. Rioting and looting will never create unity,” said Jordan Johnson, 11.