April 28, 2015
The Baltimore protests escalate following the funeral of Freddie Gray, an African American man who died in police custody, leading to a state of emergency and National Guard deployment.
Baltimore, United States | Baltimore Police Department
On April 28, 2015, Baltimore, Maryland, witnessed significant civil unrest following the funeral of Freddie Gray, an African American man who died under controversial circumstances while in police custody. This event marked a pivotal moment in the broader national conversation about police brutality and racial justice in the United States.
Freddie Gray, a 25-year-old African American man, was arrested by the Baltimore Police Department on April 12, 2015. During his arrest, Gray sustained severe spinal injuries and fell into a coma. He died a week later, on April 19, 2015. His death sparked outrage and protests in Baltimore, as it was perceived as another instance of police misconduct against African Americans.
Following Gray’s funeral on April 27, 2015, protests in Baltimore escalated significantly. While many demonstrations were peaceful, some turned violent, leading to clashes between protesters and police. The unrest included looting, arson, and vandalism, particularly in the neighborhoods of West Baltimore.
In response to the escalating violence, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency on April 28, 2015. The declaration allowed for the deployment of the Maryland National Guard to assist local law enforcement in restoring order. A citywide curfew was also imposed, running from 10 PM to 5 AM, to curb the violence and maintain public safety.
The events in Baltimore were part of a larger series of protests across the United States, highlighting systemic issues of racial inequality and police violence. The unrest in Baltimore drew national and international attention, prompting discussions on policing practices and the need for reform.
In the aftermath, six police officers were charged in connection with Freddie Gray’s death, although none were ultimately convicted. The city of Baltimore also reached a $6.4 million settlement with Gray’s family.
The protests and subsequent legal proceedings underscored the urgent need for dialogue and action on issues of race, justice, and law enforcement in America. The Baltimore protests became a significant chapter in the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality.
The events of April 28, 2015, in Baltimore serve as a stark reminder of the tensions between law enforcement and African American communities. They also highlight the power of grassroots activism in bringing attention to social injustices and the importance of addressing systemic issues within society.
Source: www.bbc.com