9/23/2016 Black lives matter.

On September 20th, 2016, Keith Lamont Scott was sitting in his vehicle when CMPD officers, looking to serve a warrant on another individual, encountered Scott.  The encounter would result in the murder of Scott, and an eruption of anger across the city.

That night protesters took to the streets in the university to express their anger.  Emotions ran high as protesters faced police and things turned violent, with CMPD firing teargas at the protesters that had blocked traffic, and eventually sending in SWAT to clear the area out.

The following evening, protesters once again took to the streets, this time in the heart of uptown Charlotte.  Once again, protests turned violent as agitators saw the protests as an excuse to cause chaos.  Despite efforts by protesters to drive the instigators out, things spiraled out of control again as riot police used force against the crowd resulting in arrests and the death of protester Justin Carr.

Protests have taken place every night and day since then, but the tone has completely changed.  There has been nothing but peace and acceptance from all protesters as they continue to demand justice.  Rallies and protests have become very organized and goal oriented.  People from all walks of life have come together to work towards the common goal of seeking justice.  Having grown up just outside of Charlotte, this incident has hit close to home.  I have very strong personal views towards police, and the lack of police accountability in America, so these protests are something that I have taken a strong interest in.  Through my somewhat hectic schedule I've been able to make it to Charlotte once to attend the protests.  Seeing the sense of community and the way everyone has come together has really shown how incredible the city of Charlotte is.

"What we know, and what you should know about him is that he was an American citizen who deserved better." - Ray Dotch, Scott's brother-in-law.