I’m a military brat. When Breonna was murdered, it was almost like going to war. I felt I had a duty to my people to protect and serve. I don’t have kids, I’m able-bodied, and literally have nothing to lose but my chains.
I quit my job to protest on the first day and have been homeless for going on 15 months. The community sheltered me in a way that meant I didn’t have to feel the weight of my burdens. Someone always made sure I had a place to sleep, and food to eat. I always tell people, I am the brokest, richest girl you know because I’m rich in community – and I realized when you take care of your community, your community takes care of you.
During the protests, I was attacked by seven officers. To know that they meant me harm for opening my mouth and speaking my truth about the pain it is to be Black, and the pain it is to be a Black woman, was a really surreal situation. They hit me like I was a football player. I still have the scars to prove it.
These cops do more harm than good. There’s too much trauma associated with them, if I can keep my child from ever seeing a police officer, I would.
The same energy that’s put into national elections needs to be put into local and state elections. If you don’t want our kids getting this poor education, get on your school board. If you don’t like how they’re doing things in the city, get on your metro council or run for mayor.
Fire, arrest, and charge the cops that killed Breonna Taylor, Elijah McClain and David McAtee. And Daniel Cameron [the attorney-general of Kentucky], you have to go.
The interviews have been edited for length and clarity.
