I can't breathe

Definition

'I can't breathe' is a phrase that became a powerful rallying cry in social and political movements, especially within the Black Lives Matter movement. It captures the urgency and desperation experienced by individuals facing police brutality and systemic oppression, symbolizing a broader struggle against racial injustice and inequality. The phrase not only highlights individual experiences but also serves as a collective demand for change and accountability in society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'I can't breathe' became widely recognized after the death of Eric Garner in 2014, who repeated the phrase while being restrained by police in New York City.
2. The phrase has been used by protesters to emphasize the violent nature of policing and the need for reform within law enforcement agencies.
3. Artistic expressions, including murals, music, and performances, have incorporated 'I can't breathe' to evoke emotional responses and raise awareness about racial injustices.
4. The phrase transcends individual incidents of violence, representing a collective cry for dignity, justice, and accountability across various social movements.
5. 'I can't breathe' has sparked discussions on broader themes like systemic racism, inequality, and the urgent need for policy changes regarding police conduct.

Review Questions

• How does the phrase 'I can't breathe' illustrate the experiences of individuals affected by police violence?
  • 'I can't breathe' illustrates the experiences of individuals affected by police violence by encapsulating their feelings of helplessness and desperation when confronted with oppressive force. This phrase reflects real-life encounters where victims, like Eric Garner, have voiced their suffering in the face of systemic brutality. It emphasizes not just personal stories but also resonates with a larger community grappling with similar experiences of injustice.
• Discuss the role of artistic expression in amplifying the message of 'I can't breathe' within social movements.
  • 'I can't breathe' has been amplified through various forms of artistic expression, such as murals, performances, and music, which serve to communicate emotional truths and mobilize public sentiment. Artists use this phrase to capture the urgency of the struggle against racial injustice and to create connections between individual experiences and collective action. This intersection of art and activism makes the message more accessible and impactful for broader audiences.
• Evaluate how 'I can't breathe' has influenced policy discussions surrounding police reform in recent years.
  • 'I can't breathe' has significantly influenced policy discussions surrounding police reform by bringing national attention to instances of police brutality and racial profiling. The phrase has become synonymous with demands for accountability within law enforcement agencies, prompting policymakers to consider changes in legislation related to policing practices. The collective outcry surrounding this phrase has sparked initiatives aimed at increasing transparency, implementing de-escalation training, and promoting community-oriented policing strategies.

Related terms

Black Lives Matter:

'Black Lives Matter' is a decentralized social and political movement that aims to address and combat systemic racism and violence against Black individuals, particularly in the context of police violence.

Police Brutality: 'Police brutality' refers to the excessive or unnecessary use of force by law enforcement officers, often resulting in injury or death to individuals, especially within marginalized communities.

Social Justice Art: 'Social justice art' encompasses creative works that seek to highlight social issues, provoke thought, and inspire action towards equality and justice for marginalized communities.