How many more?

Today I am thinking about Breonna Taylor, the 26-year-old woman who was gunned down in her sleep by three police officers more than six months ago. Earlier this week, news broke that not one of the officers involved was charged in her death. This is not justice. I grieve for Breonna, and for the countless Black Americans who have been victims of police violence.

When I was growing up, my mother taught me the value of speaking up and taking action against injustice.

In the 1960s when our church would not take a stand on civil rights, Mom found a new church that would.

I've been thinking a lot about the conversations I had with my mom growing up, and the conversations that Black parents are having with their children right now. And I recognize how different these conversations are.

We must not stay silent. We must take strong and peaceful action.

Every day, too many families are forced to have those difficult conversations, and so many parents are worried that their children may not make it home safely.

We must remember the names of victims of police violence and their families: Jacob Blake in Kenosha and his three young sons who watched police shoot him. George Floyd in Minneapolis and his six-year-old daughter, Gianna. Breonna Taylor in Louisville and her mother, Tamika Palmer.

Too many families have been torn apart. Too many sons and daughters are gone. Too many children are grieving the loss of their parents. As a mom, I stand with Black parents and kids against this epidemic of violence, brutality, and injustice against Black Americans, and create a world where all families can thrive, in safety and love.

Thank you for standing with me,

Suzanne