Police brutality has become a popular topic of discussion among youth and adults alike. African Americans are waking up and realizing many black lives are being lost at the hands of the police we are taught to revere. As of August, 731 people have been killed at the hands of police this year, even with this staggering number—many do not believe we need to reform policing.
As of recently, the Black Lives Matter movement has gained momentum and accumulated a huge following—the movement has become an essential part of visibility in the fight for racial injustice.
At the forefront of the fight is Deray Mckesson– before he became a prolific face in the fight for justice, he was a teacher fighting education equity.
His influence is notable, appearing in the New York Times, Washington Post, CNN, and even the Los Angeles Times named him one of “The New Civil Rights Leaders” for the 21st century. Pop culture icon Beyonce has noticed his activism, she currently follows him on Twitter (she only follows 10 people). With over 100,000 followers, many agree that he is the most honest source for updates on police brutality, always real and always truthful.
Deray’s interest in activism is very sincere– he left behind a good paying job to advocate full time, which doesn’t have any financial benefits. His sacrifice has helped and educated a plethora of people. I got the opportunity to interview the man himself and ask him the questions the youth sent in.
How does it feel to have so many people of color look up to you?
Deray: I know I’m just one of many people, I’m proud to stand with other activist. I know other people are looking and I’m trying to be truthful. To remain truthful and act with integrity.
Will you be putting out a line of blue vests?
Deray: No, but I live in a suitcase [laughs] and the vest is very convenient, it’s warm and it can easily be put on.
You have many notable followers, including Beyonce, how do you think you got your follower count to where it is?
Deray: I don’t know, I want to believe I been telling the truth, and people have been wanting to hear the truth. I believe that’s why a lot of people have followed me, but I don’t know.
How do you think activism in social media has an effect in the real world?
Deray: It’s always possible to tell our stories. Social media literally allowed us to tell our stories to other people. Social media has created strong relationships, I met Netta because of social media and other activist.
What got you interested in/sparked your activism?
Deray: I was a teacher and worked in schools. education equality was my issue, it was my work. Then Mike Brown got killed and I didn’t know the police were killing people, it changed my life.
What is the negative side to being a well-known activist?
Deray: There will always be a group of people unsatisfied and upset about everything.
Are you a feminist?
Deray: Yes I am, we need to dismantle patriarchy. Women are equal to men, there is nothing in this world that makes women less than men.
You were recently arrested simply for protesting what do you think that says about how police handle protests?
Deray: The status quo didn’t emerge overnight, people have worked to keep the status quo inexistent, law enforcement have been key in keeping the status quo. Anyone who threatens a system of killing people will always be a target.
Where do you think white activist fail in projecting people of color’s voices over their own?
Deray: An ally stays with the people and asks how they can support, allyship isn’t self-appointed, ally respond to calls. Using privilege to disrupt, it‘s hard living in the world where whiteness is centered.
Reverse Racism?
Deray: White people need to help white people understand racism
How did you feel about seeing Taylor Caniff being praised for being “woke” when he stole your tweets?
Deray: No comment.
What are some of your future goals?
Deray: I’m interested in seeing change in systems and structures, one day I may go back to the classroom
What advice would you give today’s youth about doing more?
Deray: If you’re not willing to tell the truth about the world you live in, then you can’t engage in any other work. You can start protest with your friends. Protest start because people come together. Change comes slowly, we won’t undo oppression in 200 days.
Aside from race, what other issues would you like activist to address?
Deray: Education equity
Do you think white America will start seeing the importance of Black Lives Matter and stop trying to derail the conversation with All Lives Matter?
Deray:I think there has been substantial change in the past year, and I think it will continue. There has not been one social movement that people have been on board with the whole time. So I’m not worried about it
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