Thousands marched through U.S. cities on Friday (June 19) in Juneteenth observances marking the abolition of slavery more than a century and a half ago, an occasion which has special resonance this year amid America's reckoning with its legacy of racism.

Juneteenth rallies and celebrations across United States

Protesters pulled down a statue of a Confederate general in Washington late on Friday, part of a wave of anti-racism demonstrations in the United States.

Black Lives Matter protests: Statues toppled across United States

The Mayor of the city of Leicester has committed to protecting the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the heart of the central England city. This comes in the aftermath of an online petition created to save the under-threat monument. It attracted over 6,000 signatures.

Mayor Peter Soulsby confirmed his support for the monument in his response to a letter from former Indian-origin Leicester East MP Keith Vaz, who has been leading a campaign ever since an online petition called for the statue's removal last week.

Similar initiatives are being undertaken by local authorities around the UK in the wake of anti-racism Black Lives Matter protests targeting statues with a dubious slave trade history.

The bronze statue, which captures the leader of the Indian freedom struggle in his characteristic walking stride in the city's famous Belgrave Road Golden Mile, came into focus with a "Remove the Gandhi Statue in Leicester" online petition last week alleging that Gandhi was a 'facist, racist and sexual predator'.

A counter petition launched on Change.Org this week, "Save the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Leicester", has since attracted thousands of signatures in support within days.

The sculpture by Kolkata artist Gautam Pal was unveiled in 2006 following a fundraising drive by Indian charity Samanwaya Pariwar.

Statues up and down the UK have become a focal point of protests in recent days, with London Mayor Sadiq Khan ordering covers for sculptures at Parliament Square in the UK capital following graffiti attacks directed at some of the monuments.

The Mayor of London's office confirmed that following discussions with the Metropolitan Police, the Gandhi and South African anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela's statues at the square are to be uncovered.

The statue of former UK PM Winston Churchill in the same square had already been uncovered on Thursday in time for French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to London. 
&nbsp;

The Mayor of the city of Leicester has committed to protecting the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the heart of the central England city. This comes in the aftermath of an online petition created to save the under-threat monument.

The Mayor of the city of Leicester has committed to protecting the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the heart of the central England city. This comes in the aftermath of an online petition created to save the under-threat monument. It attracted over 6,000 signatures. Mayor Peter Soulsby confirmed his support for the monument in his response to a letter from former Indian-origin Leicester East MP Keith Vaz, who has been leading a campaign ever since an online petition called for the statue's removal last week. Similar initiatives are being undertaken by local authorities around the UK in the wake of anti-racism Black Lives Matter protests targeting statues with a dubious slave trade history. The bronze statue, which captures the leader of the Indian freedom struggle in his characteristic walking stride in the city's famous Belgrave Road Golden Mile, came into focus with a "Remove the Gandhi Statue in Leicester" online petition last week alleging that Gandhi was a 'facist, racist and sexual predator'. A counter petition launched on Change.Org this week, "Save the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Leicester", has since attracted thousands of signatures in support within days. The sculpture by Kolkata artist Gautam Pal was unveiled in 2006 following a fundraising drive by Indian charity Samanwaya Pariwar. Statues up and down the UK have become a focal point of protests in recent days, with London Mayor Sadiq Khan ordering covers for sculptures at Parliament Square in the UK capital following graffiti attacks directed at some of the monuments. The Mayor of London's office confirmed that following discussions with the Metropolitan Police, the Gandhi and South African anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela's statues at the square are to be uncovered. The statue of former UK PM Winston Churchill in the same square had already been uncovered on Thursday in time for French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to London.

Leicester Mayor promises to protect city's Gandhi statue

Protesters have toppled the only statue of a Confederate general in the US capital and set it on fire.

The incident comes on Juneteenth, the day marking the end of slavery in the United States, amid continuing anti-racism demonstrations following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

Demonstrators wrapped the 11-foot statue of Albert Pike with chains before the high granite pedestal fell backward, landing in a pile of dust.&nbsp;

They then set a bonfire and stood around it in a circle as the statue burned, chanting, "No justice, no peace!" and "No racist police!"&nbsp;

President Donald Trump quickly tweeted about the toppling, calling out DC Mayor Muriel Bowser.

"The D.C. Police are not doing their job as they watch a statue be ripped down &amp; burn. These people should be immediately arrested. A disgrace to our Country!"&nbsp;he wrote.

After the statue fell, most protesters returned peacefully to Lafayette Park near the White House.

There have been protests against racism and police brutality across the country and around the world since George Floyd, a Black man, died in Minneapolis police custody last month.&nbsp;

Some of the focus has been calls for authorities take down monuments honoring figures from the pro-slavery Confederate side in the American Civil War.

The statue toppling in Washington took place at the end of a day when thousands of people marched through US cities in Juneteenth observances commemorating the abolition of slavery.

Protesters have toppled the only statue of a Confederate general in the US capital and set it on fire. The incident comes on Juneteenth, the day marking the end of slavery in the United States, amid continuing anti-racism demonstrations following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

Protesters have toppled the only statue of a Confederate general in the US capital and set it on fire. The incident comes on Juneteenth, the day marking the end of slavery in the United States, amid continuing anti-racism demonstrations following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Demonstrators wrapped the 11-foot statue of Albert Pike with chains before the high granite pedestal fell backward, landing in a pile of dust. They then set a bonfire and stood around it in a circle as the statue burned, chanting, "No justice, no peace!" and "No racist police!" President Donald Trump quickly tweeted about the toppling, calling out DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. "The D.C. Police are not doing their job as they watch a statue be ripped down & burn. These people should be immediately arrested. A disgrace to our Country!" he wrote. After the statue fell, most protesters returned peacefully to Lafayette Park near the White House. There have been protests against racism and police brutality across the country and around the world since George Floyd, a Black man, died in Minneapolis police custody last month. Some of the focus has been calls for authorities take down monuments honoring figures from the pro-slavery Confederate side in the American Civil War. The statue toppling in Washington took place at the end of a day when thousands of people marched through US cities in Juneteenth observances commemorating the abolition of slavery.

Statue of Confederate general toppled in Washington, Trump calls it a 'disgrace'

Belgium is due a reckoning with its colonial past, and things left unsaid must now be discussed, argues the Congolese-born 72-year-old who became the country's first black mayor.

Pierre Kompany's family has made a name for itself in Belgium. He is a former refugee turned pioneering politician, and his son Vincent Kompany is a star footballer in the national squad, the world's top-ranked team.

But, in an interview with AFP before the June 30 anniversary of the then Belgian Congo's independence, and against a backdrop of anti-racism protests, Kompany senior said it was time for some home truths.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/activists-remove-statue-of-belgian-colonial-king-leopold-ii-in-brussels-305403">Activists remove statue of Belgian colonial King Leopold II in Brussels</a>

While in the United States activists declaring "Black Lives Matter" have targeted the symbols of the slave-holding Confederacy, in Belgium the protests have focused around statues of Leopold II, "King Builder" of the Belgian nation.

Reigning between 1865 and 1909, Leopold held Belgium's central African territory, now the Democratic Republic of Congo, as a personal fiefdom, profiting directly from rubber plantations run with sadistic and murderous brutality.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-dismantles-historical-artefacts-of-racism-monuments-become-sites-of-protest-304777">World dismantles historical artefacts of racism, monuments become sites of protest</a>

Historians and writers have documented the crimes of the era, in which up to 10 million Congolese were killed or fell victim to disease and torture, but Leopold's statues still look down on parks and squares across modern Belgium.

For Kompany, the monuments should have been taken down and placed in museums years before they became the target of protests and night-raids by activists, as part of a broader reckoning with the past that could heal some modern wounds.

"No one would go into a museum to smash them," smiles Kompany, who was elected bourgmestre or mayor of the Brussels suburb of Ganshoren in 2018 and represents the centrist CDH party in the capital's regional parliament.

For Kompany, Belgium missed an important opportunity to face up to its past in 2009, the centenary of the former king's death, which the Belgium state allowed to pass without fanfare, embarrassed to revive debate over his legacy.

&nbsp;

"There is a flagrant reality, it's not in doubt," he says of the crimes carried out in Leopold II's name.

Belgium is due a reckoning with its colonial past, and things left unsaid must now be discussed, argues the Congolese-born 72-year-old who became the country's first black mayor.

Belgium is due a reckoning with its colonial past, and things left unsaid must now be discussed, argues the Congolese-born 72-year-old who became the country's first black mayor. Pierre Kompany's family has made a name for itself in Belgium. He is a former refugee turned pioneering politician, and his son Vincent Kompany is a star footballer in the national squad, the world's top-ranked team. But, in an interview with AFP before the June 30 anniversary of the then Belgian Congo's independence, and against a backdrop of anti-racism protests, Kompany senior said it was time for some home truths. Also read: Activists remove statue of Belgian colonial King Leopold II in Brussels While in the United States activists declaring "Black Lives Matter" have targeted the symbols of the slave-holding Confederacy, in Belgium the protests have focused around statues of Leopold II, "King Builder" of the Belgian nation. Reigning between 1865 and 1909, Leopold held Belgium's central African territory, now the Democratic Republic of Congo, as a personal fiefdom, profiting directly from rubber plantations run with sadistic and murderous brutality. Also see: World dismantles historical artefacts of racism, monuments become sites of protest Historians and writers have documented the crimes of the era, in which up to 10 million Congolese were killed or fell victim to disease and torture, but Leopold's statues still look down on parks and squares across modern Belgium. For Kompany, the monuments should have been taken down and placed in museums years before they became the target of protests and night-raids by activists, as part of a broader reckoning with the past that could heal some modern wounds. "No one would go into a museum to smash them," smiles Kompany, who was elected bourgmestre or mayor of the Brussels suburb of Ganshoren in 2018 and represents the centrist CDH party in the capital's regional parliament. For Kompany, Belgium missed an important opportunity to face up to its past in 2009, the centenary of the former king's death, which the Belgium state allowed to pass without fanfare, embarrassed to revive debate over his legacy. "There is a flagrant reality, it's not in doubt," he says of the crimes carried out in Leopold II's name.

Belgium should apologise for colonial past, says first black mayor

Emancipation Day: Juneteenth and its significance in US history

The UN Human Rights Council on Friday condemned discriminatory and violent policing after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last month and ordered a report on "systemic racism" against people of African descent.

The 47-member state forum in Geneva unanimously adopted a resolution, brought by African countries. The mandate also asks UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet to examine government responses to peaceful protests, including accusations of the excessive use of force, and deliver findings in a year's time.

Philonise Floyd, the brother of the Black man whose death under the knee of a white officer roused world protests against racial injustice, urged the forum on Wednesday to investigate US police brutality and racial discrimination.

Burkina Faso's Ambassador Dieudonné W. Désiré Sougouri presented the African resolution on Friday, urging its adoption by consensus.

"It is important to show Africa...the Human Rights Council has heard the plight of African and people of African descent calling for equal treatment and application of equal rights for all," he said.

The Africa group had made "concessions" in the negotiations with other countries that were "quite numerous", he added.

The text was watered down during closed-door negotiations from an initial draft explicitly calling for a UN commission of inquiry on racism in the United States and elsewhere.

"By bullying other countries to water down what would have been an historic resolution and exempting itself from international investigation the United States is yet again turning its back on victims of police violence and Black people," said Jamil Dakwar of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which led 600 activist groups in calling for the debate.

"We will not rest until US is fully held accountable for police violence and structural racism," he said.

The Trump administration, which quit the forum two years ago alleging bias against its ally Israel, made no immediate comment. US Ambassador to the UN in Geneva Andrew Bremberg issued a statement on Wednesday that his country was "not above scrutiny" as it grappled with racial discrimination but was implementing police reforms after Floyd's killing.

The UN Human Rights Council on Friday condemned discriminatory and violent policing after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last month and ordered a report on "systemic racism" against people of African descent.

The UN Human Rights Council on Friday condemned discriminatory and violent policing after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last month and ordered a report on "systemic racism" against people of African descent. The 47-member state forum in Geneva unanimously adopted a resolution, brought by African countries. The mandate also asks UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet to examine government responses to peaceful protests, including accusations of the excessive use of force, and deliver findings in a year's time. Philonise Floyd, the brother of the Black man whose death under the knee of a white officer roused world protests against racial injustice, urged the forum on Wednesday to investigate US police brutality and racial discrimination. Burkina Faso's Ambassador Dieudonné W. Désiré Sougouri presented the African resolution on Friday, urging its adoption by consensus. "It is important to show Africa...the Human Rights Council has heard the plight of African and people of African descent calling for equal treatment and application of equal rights for all," he said. The Africa group had made "concessions" in the negotiations with other countries that were "quite numerous", he added. The text was watered down during closed-door negotiations from an initial draft explicitly calling for a UN commission of inquiry on racism in the United States and elsewhere. "By bullying other countries to water down what would have been an historic resolution and exempting itself from international investigation the United States is yet again turning its back on victims of police violence and Black people," said Jamil Dakwar of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which led 600 activist groups in calling for the debate. "We will not rest until US is fully held accountable for police violence and structural racism," he said. The Trump administration, which quit the forum two years ago alleging bias against its ally Israel, made no immediate comment. US Ambassador to the UN in Geneva Andrew Bremberg issued a statement on Wednesday that his country was "not above scrutiny" as it grappled with racial discrimination but was implementing police reforms after Floyd's killing.

UN sets up inquiry into racism after George Floyd death

Anti-racism activists poured red paint on a statue of an Italian colonial-era general and pasted over the name of a street in Rome on Friday to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement in the United States.

Early in the morning, the activists from a group calling itself the "Let's Remain Human Network" changed a street sign from Via Amba Aradam to Via George Floyd and Bilal Ben Messaud.

Amba Aradam was the location of a battle that took place in 1936 when Italian colonial forces defeated Ethiopian warriors with mustard gas, tanks, and heavy artillery.

Floyd died in Minneapolis after a police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes while detaining him on May 25. His death has triggered worldwide protests against racism and police brutality.

Messaud was a migrant who died last month while trying to swim ashore from a ship off the coast of Sicily.

The same group took responsibility for splashing red paint on a statue of Antonio Baldissera, a 19th century general in Italy's colonial forces in Abyssinia, now part of Ethiopia.

The group said in a post on Facebook that it was protesting against "structural racism" and that the actions were part of a campaign "to dismantle the symbols of colonialism" in Rome.

Meanwhile, the latest target of activists in Amsterdam is a statue of a top officer of the Dutch East India Company who in the 17th century founded the city that is now Indonesia's capital, Jakarta.&nbsp;

Protests calling for the removal of the statue of Jan Pieterszoon Coen and a counter-demonstration supporting it are planned for Friday evening.

Coen is honoured since the late 19th century as a colonial ruler and leading light in the Dutch East India Company trading powerhouse. But he is also reviled as the "butcher of Banda" for a bloody 1621 assault on a group of islands in order to secure a monopoly on spices grown there.

Prior to this, two protests in Amsterdam drew thousands of participants. A statue of Piet Hein, a colonial era mariner widely regarded as a hero, was daubed with red paint and the word "killer" last week.

(with inputs from agencies)

Anti-racism activists poured red paint on a statue of an Italian colonial-era general and pasted over the name of a street in Rome on Friday to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement in the United States.

Anti-racism activists poured red paint on a statue of an Italian colonial-era general and pasted over the name of a street in Rome on Friday to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement in the United States. Early in the morning, the activists from a group calling itself the "Let's Remain Human Network" changed a street sign from Via Amba Aradam to Via George Floyd and Bilal Ben Messaud. Amba Aradam was the location of a battle that took place in 1936 when Italian colonial forces defeated Ethiopian warriors with mustard gas, tanks, and heavy artillery. Floyd died in Minneapolis after a police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes while detaining him on May 25. His death has triggered worldwide protests against racism and police brutality. Messaud was a migrant who died last month while trying to swim ashore from a ship off the coast of Sicily. The same group took responsibility for splashing red paint on a statue of Antonio Baldissera, a 19th century general in Italy's colonial forces in Abyssinia, now part of Ethiopia. The group said in a post on Facebook that it was protesting against "structural racism" and that the actions were part of a campaign "to dismantle the symbols of colonialism" in Rome. Meanwhile, the latest target of activists in Amsterdam is a statue of a top officer of the Dutch East India Company who in the 17th century founded the city that is now Indonesia's capital, Jakarta. Protests calling for the removal of the statue of Jan Pieterszoon Coen and a counter-demonstration supporting it are planned for Friday evening. Coen is honoured since the late 19th century as a colonial ruler and leading light in the Dutch East India Company trading powerhouse. But he is also reviled as the "butcher of Banda" for a bloody 1621 assault on a group of islands in order to secure a monopoly on spices grown there. Prior to this, two protests in Amsterdam drew thousands of participants. A statue of Piet Hein, a colonial era mariner widely regarded as a hero, was daubed with red paint and the word "killer" last week. (with inputs from agencies)

'Black Lives Matter' spurs scrutiny of colonial past in Italy, The Netherlands

As 'Black lives matter' movement took over the world, a lot of companies had to rethink their campaigns and company policies, to be morally correct towards the Afican-American community.

Following the same process, Johnson &amp; Johnson, a medical consumer goods company, has decided to stop the production and sale of skim whitening creams.

These products, as reported by Johnson &amp; Johnson, are more popular in Asia and the Middle East.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/atlanta-police-shooting-donald-trump-defends-officer-who-shot-victim-307038">Also read|&nbsp;Atlanta police shooting: Donald Trump defends officer who shot victim</a>

In India, products from Johnson &amp; Johnson's range 'Clean &amp; Clear Fairness' are very popular.&nbsp;News that it would pull its Neutrogena Fine Fairness line, available in Asia and the Middle East, was reported earlier this month.

The company&nbsp;had been facing heat about their products and was being blamed for promoting racial inequality through their products. Clearing the air, a spokesperson said,&nbsp;"Conversations over the past few weeks highlighted that some product names or claims on our dark spot reducer products represent fairness or white as better than your own unique skin tone. This was never our intention – healthy skin is beautiful skin."

However, the products will be on shelves till stocks last, the company said.

As 'Black lives matter' movement took over the world, a lot of companies had to rethink their campaigns and company policies, to be morally correct towards the Afican-American community.

As 'Black lives matter' movement took over the world, a lot of companies had to rethink their campaigns and company policies, to be morally correct towards the Afican-American community. Following the same process, Johnson & Johnson, a medical consumer goods company, has decided to stop the production and sale of skim whitening creams. These products, as reported by Johnson & Johnson, are more popular in Asia and the Middle East. Also read| Atlanta police shooting: Donald Trump defends officer who shot victim In India, products from Johnson & Johnson's range 'Clean & Clear Fairness' are very popular. News that it would pull its Neutrogena Fine Fairness line, available in Asia and the Middle East, was reported earlier this month. The company had been facing heat about their products and was being blamed for promoting racial inequality through their products. Clearing the air, a spokesperson said, "Conversations over the past few weeks highlighted that some product names or claims on our dark spot reducer products represent fairness or white as better than your own unique skin tone. This was never our intention – healthy skin is beautiful skin." However, the products will be on shelves till stocks last, the company said.

Healthy skin is beautiful skin: Johnson & Johnson stops sale of skin whitening creams

United Kingdom's&nbsp;Foreign secretary Dominic Raab is being ridiculed&nbsp;for saying he would not ‘'take the knee'’ in support of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, describing it as a ''symbol of subjugation and subordination'' that&nbsp;originated from the TV show Game of Thrones.

Raab admitted he did not know the broader history of the gesture, which has been used at demonstrations around the world to express solidarity in the fight against racial inequality.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/footballers-and-teams-take-a-knee-during-the-match-support-anti-racism-campaign-306774">Footballers and teams take a knee during the match support anti-racism campaign!</a>

He said he understood why some people took the knee, but said he would only do so ''for the Queen and my&nbsp;wife&nbsp;when I asked her to marry me”.

The pose, used in the past by Martin Luther King for prayer, was adopted as a secular protest against racism in 2016 and has spread widely since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last month as a way of showing support for Black Lives Matter movement and respect for those killed.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-dismantles-historical-artefacts-of-racism-monuments-become-sites-of-protest-304777">World dismantles historical artefacts of racism, monuments become sites of protest</a>

He has been ridiculed for incorrectly claiming it derived from hit TV series Game of Thrones, with critics calling his comments ''insulting and embarrassing''. Speaking in an interview, Raab accepted other people ''feel differently''&nbsp;and insisted he understood the ‘frustration’ felt by oppressed communities.

<img alt="Raab" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a3af670e-0383-4dd0-8ba3-fa55fcf3aa39" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/PRC_154923918.jpg" /> 
Dominic Raab during the&nbsp;interview (left) and kneeling in the show Game of Thrones (right)

Raab later sought to clarify his remarks, tweeting:

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To be clear: I have full respect for the Black Lives Matter movement, and the issues driving them. If people wish to take a knee, that’s their choice and I respect it. We all need to come together to tackle any discrimination and social injustice.
— Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) <a href="https://twitter.com/DominicRaab/status/1273565184351756289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It comes after Premier League football players&nbsp;took a knee at kickoff&nbsp;in support of the Black Lives Matter movement in Wednesday's games.

Taking a knee has come to be regarded as a symbolic act of opposing racism in recent years.

It originated in American football, when National Football League player Colin Kaepernick knelt while the US national anthem played to call attention to racial injustice.

In Game of Thrones, ''bending the knee''&nbsp;is a formal act of submission to a monarch or lord.

United Kingdom's Foreign secretary Dominic Raab is being ridiculed for saying he would not ‘'take the knee'’ in support of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, describing it as a ''symbol of subjugation and subordination'' that originated from the TV show Game of Thrones.

United Kingdom's Foreign secretary Dominic Raab is being ridiculed for saying he would not ‘'take the knee'’ in support of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, describing it as a ''symbol of subjugation and subordination'' that originated from the TV show Game of Thrones. Raab admitted he did not know the broader history of the gesture, which has been used at demonstrations around the world to express solidarity in the fight against racial inequality. Also see: Footballers and teams take a knee during the match support anti-racism campaign! He said he understood why some people took the knee, but said he would only do so ''for the Queen and my wife when I asked her to marry me”. The pose, used in the past by Martin Luther King for prayer, was adopted as a secular protest against racism in 2016 and has spread widely since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis last month as a way of showing support for Black Lives Matter movement and respect for those killed. Also see: World dismantles historical artefacts of racism, monuments become sites of protest He has been ridiculed for incorrectly claiming it derived from hit TV series Game of Thrones, with critics calling his comments ''insulting and embarrassing''. Speaking in an interview, Raab accepted other people ''feel differently'' and insisted he understood the ‘frustration’ felt by oppressed communities. Dominic Raab during the interview (left) and kneeling in the show Game of Thrones (right) Raab later sought to clarify his remarks, tweeting: To be clear: I have full respect for the Black Lives Matter movement, and the issues driving them. If people wish to take a knee, that’s their choice and I respect it. We all need to come together to tackle any discrimination and social injustice. — Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) June 18, 2020 × It comes after Premier League football players took a knee at kickoff in support of the Black Lives Matter movement in Wednesday's games. Taking a knee has come to be regarded as a symbolic act of opposing racism in recent years. It originated in American football, when National Football League player Colin Kaepernick knelt while the US national anthem played to call attention to racial injustice. In Game of Thrones, ''bending the knee'' is a formal act of submission to a monarch or lord.

UK minister refuses to take 'the knee' as it is from Game of Thrones

The ex-Atlanta Police officer who faces a felony murder charge for fatally shooting&nbsp;Rayshard Brooks&nbsp;last week kicked the 27-year-old man after he fell to the ground, Fulton County's district attorney said Wednesday.

Garrett Rolfe, who has already been fired, faces 11 charges related to Rayshard Brooks' death. If convicted, he could face the death penalty.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/decision-pending-on-charges-in-atlanta-police-shooting-death-of-rayshard-brooks-306516" hreflang="en">Decision pending on charges in Atlanta police shooting death of Rayshard Brooks</a>

After Rolfe shot Brooks, he failed to give timely first aid, exclaimed, "I got him," and kicked Brooks as he struggled for his life, DA Paul Howard said.

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The other officer at the scene, Devin Brosnan, will testify as a witness in the case, officials said.

<img alt="Garrett Rolfe (left) and Officer Devin Brosnan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61cd48b1-0f87-4094-8085-140c315bc397" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/_112956507_rolfe-brosnan-split-ap-jt-200616_hpembed_2_4x3_992.jpg" /> 
Garrett Rolfe (left) and Officer Devin Brosnan

The case comes amid US protests over police killings of black Americans.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-in-richmond-us-tear-down-another-confederate-statue-306490" hreflang="en">Protesters in Richmond, US tear down another Confederate statue</a>

Lawmakers in Washington are currently debating new police reform laws.

Brosnan, who has already been placed on administrative leave, will be charged with assault for standing on&nbsp;Brooks' shoulder as he lay dying.

Officials said this was the ninth time that an Atlanta police officer had been prosecuted for homicide.

They added that it is believed to be the first time a police officer would testify against a member of his own unit, though Mr Brosnan's lawyer denied his client would be a witness in the case.

The killing Friday night came amid nationwide protests calling for an end to racism and police violence against black people. Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields stepped down from her position in the wake of the killing.

Another demonstration was taking place Wednesday at the Wendy's where Brooks was shot, with dozens of protesters gathered and some blocking the road.

<figure>&nbsp;</figure>

The ex-Atlanta Police officer who faces a felony murder charge for fatally shooting Rayshard Brooks last week kicked the 27-year-old man after he fell to the ground, Fulton County's district attorney said Wednesday.

The ex-Atlanta Police officer who faces a felony murder charge for fatally shooting Rayshard Brooks last week kicked the 27-year-old man after he fell to the ground, Fulton County's district attorney said Wednesday. Garrett Rolfe, who has already been fired, faces 11 charges related to Rayshard Brooks' death. If convicted, he could face the death penalty. Also read: Decision pending on charges in Atlanta police shooting death of Rayshard Brooks After Rolfe shot Brooks, he failed to give timely first aid, exclaimed, "I got him," and kicked Brooks as he struggled for his life, DA Paul Howard said. The other officer at the scene, Devin Brosnan, will testify as a witness in the case, officials said. Garrett Rolfe (left) and Officer Devin Brosnan The case comes amid US protests over police killings of black Americans. Also read: Protesters in Richmond, US tear down another Confederate statue Lawmakers in Washington are currently debating new police reform laws. Brosnan, who has already been placed on administrative leave, will be charged with assault for standing on Brooks' shoulder as he lay dying. Officials said this was the ninth time that an Atlanta police officer had been prosecuted for homicide. They added that it is believed to be the first time a police officer would testify against a member of his own unit, though Mr Brosnan's lawyer denied his client would be a witness in the case. The killing Friday night came amid nationwide protests calling for an end to racism and police violence against black people. Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields stepped down from her position in the wake of the killing. Another demonstration was taking place Wednesday at the Wendy's where Brooks was shot, with dozens of protesters gathered and some blocking the road.

Ex-Atlanta policeman charged with felony murder of Rayshard Brooks

British foreign minister thinks "taking the knee" comes from Game of Thrones.

Ask a lot of sports personalities all over the world have started "taking the knee" to show their support with the African-American community in the ongoing movement of 'Black Lives Matter', Dominic Raab seems to think the act of taking the knee comes from the novel-turned-TV series Game of Thrones.

He also feels that the action is&nbsp;a symbol of subjugation and subordination.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/black-lives-matter-english-premier-league-players-take-knee-in-solidarity-306656">Also read|&nbsp;Black Lives Matter: English Premier League players take knee in solidarity</a>

In Game of Thrones, the phrase "bending the knee" is used when someone pledges their support to a monarch or lord.

The statement came a day after Premier League players, in&nbsp;England, took a knee before kickoff in support of the "Black Lives Matter" movement on Wednesday.

On a radio interview, when he was asked if he would take a knee to show support, he said he understood the restlessness and frustration behind the movement, and&nbsp;then added "I've got to say on this 'taking the knee' thing, which I don't know, maybe it's got a broader history but it seems to be taken from the Game of Thrones. It feels to me like a symbol of subjugation and subordination rather than one of liberation and emancipation. But I understand people feel differently about it so it`s a matter of personal choice."

He further added, "I take the knee for two people, the queen and the missus when I asked her to marry me."

(With inputs from Reuters)

British foreign minister thinks "taking the knee" comes from Game of Thrones. Ask a lot of sports personalities all over the world have started "taking the knee" to show their support with the African-American community in the ongoing movement of 'Black Lives Matter', Dominic Raab seems to think the act of taking the knee comes from the novel-turned-TV series Game of Thrones.

British foreign minister thinks "taking the knee" comes from Game of Thrones. Ask a lot of sports personalities all over the world have started "taking the knee" to show their support with the African-American community in the ongoing movement of 'Black Lives Matter', Dominic Raab seems to think the act of taking the knee comes from the novel-turned-TV series Game of Thrones. He also feels that the action is a symbol of subjugation and subordination. Also read| Black Lives Matter: English Premier League players take knee in solidarity In Game of Thrones, the phrase "bending the knee" is used when someone pledges their support to a monarch or lord. The statement came a day after Premier League players, in England, took a knee before kickoff in support of the "Black Lives Matter" movement on Wednesday. On a radio interview, when he was asked if he would take a knee to show support, he said he understood the restlessness and frustration behind the movement, and then added "I've got to say on this 'taking the knee' thing, which I don't know, maybe it's got a broader history but it seems to be taken from the Game of Thrones. It feels to me like a symbol of subjugation and subordination rather than one of liberation and emancipation. But I understand people feel differently about it so it`s a matter of personal choice." He further added, "I take the knee for two people, the queen and the missus when I asked her to marry me." (With inputs from Reuters)

UK foreign minister thinks 'taking the knee' resembles Game of Thrones action

Tech giant Google has announced over $175 million to support black business owners, startup founders, job seekers and developers.

Earlier, Google-owned YouTube launched a $100 million fund to "amplify and develop" voices of black creators.&nbsp;

"Concrete commitments are being made by Google to promote racial equity in the company, its products and its programs," said Google CEO Sundar Pichai in a statement. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/do-black-lives-matter-yes-say-siri-alexa-and-google-assistant-305068">Also Read:&nbsp;Do black lives matter? Yes, say Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant</a>

Pichai outlined that racial equity is inextricably linked to economic opportunity.&nbsp;

"Google is working to improve Black+ representation at senior levels and committing to a goal to improve leadership representation of underrepresented groups by 30 per cent by 2025," he informed.

The internet giant is creating&nbsp;new "talent liaison" positions to advocate when it comes to keeping and promoting employees from underrepresented groups. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-to-ban-discriminatory-advertisements-targeting-housing-job-and-credit-card-305388">Also Read:&nbsp;Google to ban discriminatory advertisements targeting housing, job and credit card</a>

Last week, Google announced that it is updating its advertising policies to prevent housing, employment, and credit card advertisers from targeting users based on gender, age, parental status, marital status, and ZIP Code.&nbsp;

Google had previously barred advertisers from choosing ad targets based on users' race, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Tech giant Google has announced over $175 million to support black business owners, startup founders, job seekers and developers. Earlier, Google-owned YouTube launched a $100 million fund to "amplify and develop" voices of black creators.

Tech giant Google has announced over $175 million to support black business owners, startup founders, job seekers and developers. Earlier, Google-owned YouTube launched a $100 million fund to "amplify and develop" voices of black creators. "Concrete commitments are being made by Google to promote racial equity in the company, its products and its programs," said Google CEO Sundar Pichai in a statement. Also Read: Do black lives matter? Yes, say Siri, Alexa and Google Assistant Pichai outlined that racial equity is inextricably linked to economic opportunity. "Google is working to improve Black+ representation at senior levels and committing to a goal to improve leadership representation of underrepresented groups by 30 per cent by 2025," he informed. The internet giant is creating new "talent liaison" positions to advocate when it comes to keeping and promoting employees from underrepresented groups. Also Read: Google to ban discriminatory advertisements targeting housing, job and credit card Last week, Google announced that it is updating its advertising policies to prevent housing, employment, and credit card advertisers from targeting users based on gender, age, parental status, marital status, and ZIP Code. Google had previously barred advertisers from choosing ad targets based on users' race, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation. (With inputs from agencies)

To boost racial equity, Google pledges $175 million to support black-owned businesses

Across the world, 'Black Lives Matter' has turned into a movement, from a protest, to highlight the racism faced by the African American community, especially in the US.

As the movement is covering a larger ground, people are bringing down the statues of the pre and post colonial "heroes" who not only supported and promoted, but also took part in slavery and racist practices.

One such campaign,&nbsp;&nbsp;#RhodesMustFall started back in 2015 in South Africa, demanding the removal&nbsp;of a statue of Rhodes at Cape Town University. However, Oriel College denied the request stating the statue would be "an important reminder of the complexity of history".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-removes-slave-trader-robert-milligans-statue-outside-london-museum-304708">Also read:&nbsp;Britain removes slave trader Robert Milligan's statue outside London museum</a>
<img alt="Cecil Rhodes statue in Oriel college" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d3735935-3154-4fb1-934b-b5801e68dfdb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_132.jpg" />
Now, with the movement in full swing, Oriel college, an Oxford University college, has finally decided to&nbsp;remove the statue of Cecil Rhodes as it&nbsp;has been a target of anti-racism protests, though the decision would be made independently.

"Rhodes must fall" has been a popular slogan for the past few years now, as he is believed to have&nbsp;expressed racist beliefs and implemented racial segregation measures that started 'apartheid'.

Rhodes was a central figure in Britain's colonial project in Southern Africa, giving his name to Rhodesia, present-day Zimbabwe, and founding the De Beers diamond empire.

Officials from Oriel college will be setting up an independent&nbsp;commission of inquiry to look into the issues raised by the protestors, and will take a decision based on&nbsp;Rhodes legacy and&nbsp;college's commitment to diversity.

Across the world, 'Black Lives Matter' has turned into a movement, from a protest, to highlight the racism faced by the African American community, especially in the US.

Across the world, 'Black Lives Matter' has turned into a movement, from a protest, to highlight the racism faced by the African American community, especially in the US. As the movement is covering a larger ground, people are bringing down the statues of the pre and post colonial "heroes" who not only supported and promoted, but also took part in slavery and racist practices. One such campaign, #RhodesMustFall started back in 2015 in South Africa, demanding the removal of a statue of Rhodes at Cape Town University. However, Oriel College denied the request stating the statue would be "an important reminder of the complexity of history". Also read: Britain removes slave trader Robert Milligan's statue outside London museum Now, with the movement in full swing, Oriel college, an Oxford University college, has finally decided to remove the statue of Cecil Rhodes as it has been a target of anti-racism protests, though the decision would be made independently. "Rhodes must fall" has been a popular slogan for the past few years now, as he is believed to have expressed racist beliefs and implemented racial segregation measures that started 'apartheid'. Rhodes was a central figure in Britain's colonial project in Southern Africa, giving his name to Rhodesia, present-day Zimbabwe, and founding the De Beers diamond empire. Officials from Oriel college will be setting up an independent commission of inquiry to look into the issues raised by the protestors, and will take a decision based on Rhodes legacy and college's commitment to diversity.

Oxford college wants to remove statue of colonialist Rhodes after #RhodesMustFall spreads

The 75-year-old peace activist who was filmed being pushed to the ground by Buffalo police during a&nbsp;Black Lives Matter&nbsp;protest has a skull fracture and can't walk, his lawyer has said.&nbsp;

Martin Gugino was filmed being shoved over by cops in Buffalo and lying on the ground in pain while blood streamed from his head earlier this month.&nbsp;

He had not aggravated the officers and was instead protesting peacefully.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-shows-police-in-buffalo-new-york-shoving-75-year-old-man-to-ground-303477">Video shows police in Buffalo, New York, shoving 75-year-old man to ground</a>

On Tuesday, his attorney said that he had a skull fracture and still had not recovered fully.&nbsp;

<img alt="Gugino was violently pushed by Buffalo cops earlier this month while peacefully protesting" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9c1914b2-eb85-43ea-a2f4-d36f4ad431ed" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2852%29_3.jpg" /> 
Gugino was violently pushed by Buffalo cops earlier this month while peacefully protesting

'I am not at liberty to elaborate at this time other than to confirm that his skull was fractured.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-buffalo-police-officers-charged-with-assault-in-shoving-75-year-old-to-ground-303907">Two Buffalo police officers charged with assault in shoving 75-year old to ground</a>

'While he is not able to walk yet, we were able to have a short conversation before he became too tired.

<img alt="The 75-year-old lay on the ground, bleeding from the head, but no cop stopped to help him" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6f00bb4a-3812-4170-afaf-6436bea3f33d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2853%29_2.jpg" /> 
The 75-year-old lay on the ground, bleeding from the head, but no cop stopped to help him

'He is appreciative of all of the concern about him but he is still focused on the issues rather than himself,' Gugino’s attorney Kelly Zarcone told said.

The video of him being hurt emerged at the height of nationwide protests over police brutality.&nbsp;

It was admonished by leaders but President Trump suggested Gugino had somehow hatched it up as a stunt. He claimed on Twitter, without evidence, that Gugino was an Antifa 'provocateur'.&nbsp;

The president was widely criticized for his remarks.&nbsp;

Among critics was New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo who called it 'reprehensible' and said:&nbsp;'And from the president of the United States at this moment of anguish and anger. He pours gasoline on the fire.&nbsp;

'If there was ever, if he ever feels a moment of decency, he should apologize for that tweet.'&nbsp;

He called it 'wholly unacceptable' and said there was 'Not a piece of proof. Personally disparaging when the man is still in the hospital.&nbsp;'Show some decency, some humanity,' he continued.

Gugino's lawyer previously said he had no connection to Antifa.

The 75-year-old peace activist who was filmed being pushed to the ground by Buffalo police during a Black Lives Matter protest has a skull fracture and can't walk, his lawyer has said.

The 75-year-old peace activist who was filmed being pushed to the ground by Buffalo police during a Black Lives Matter protest has a skull fracture and can't walk, his lawyer has said. Martin Gugino was filmed being shoved over by cops in Buffalo and lying on the ground in pain while blood streamed from his head earlier this month. He had not aggravated the officers and was instead protesting peacefully. Also read: Video shows police in Buffalo, New York, shoving 75-year-old man to ground On Tuesday, his attorney said that he had a skull fracture and still had not recovered fully. Gugino was violently pushed by Buffalo cops earlier this month while peacefully protesting 'I am not at liberty to elaborate at this time other than to confirm that his skull was fractured. Also read: Two Buffalo police officers charged with assault in shoving 75-year old to ground 'While he is not able to walk yet, we were able to have a short conversation before he became too tired. The 75-year-old lay on the ground, bleeding from the head, but no cop stopped to help him 'He is appreciative of all of the concern about him but he is still focused on the issues rather than himself,' Gugino’s attorney Kelly Zarcone told said. The video of him being hurt emerged at the height of nationwide protests over police brutality. It was admonished by leaders but President Trump suggested Gugino had somehow hatched it up as a stunt. He claimed on Twitter, without evidence, that Gugino was an Antifa 'provocateur'. The president was widely criticized for his remarks. Among critics was New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo who called it 'reprehensible' and said: 'And from the president of the United States at this moment of anguish and anger. He pours gasoline on the fire. 'If there was ever, if he ever feels a moment of decency, he should apologize for that tweet.' He called it 'wholly unacceptable' and said there was 'Not a piece of proof. Personally disparaging when the man is still in the hospital. 'Show some decency, some humanity,' he continued. Gugino's lawyer previously said he had no connection to Antifa.

75-year-old Buffalo protester pushed by police has fractured skull and cannot walk

Quaker Oats is retiring the Aunt Jemima brand and logo, acknowledging its racial origins.

In a statement provided to CNN Business, the Pepsi-owned company said, "As we work to make progress toward racial equality through several initiatives, we also must take a hard look at our portfolio of brands and ensure they reflect our values and meet our consumers' expectations."

This is happening in the aftermath of the nationwide, rather global, reckoning on race following the death of George Floyd, a black man, in police custody.

The news was first reported by NBC News.

The more than 130-year-old brand's origin and logo is based off the song "Old Aunt Jemima" from a minstrel show performer and reportedly sung by slaves. The company's website said the logo started in 1890 and was based on Nancy Green, a "storyteller, cook and missionary worker." However, the website fails to mention Green was born into slavery.

The brand was earlier also called out for racist past. In a 2015 opinion piece published in the New York Times, Cornell University professor Riché Richardson said the logo is "very much linked to Southern racism."

Richardson said the Aunt Jemima logo is based on a "'mammy,' a devoted and submissive servant who eagerly nurtured the children of her white master and mistress while neglecting her own."

The company also ran racist ads for several decades, with actresses personifying the mammy stereotype.

In 2017, the husband of the late B&nbsp;Smith called on the company to change it and said it was the epitome of "female humiliation."

The Aunt Jemima brand was purchased by Quaker Oats in 1926. PepsiCo bought Quaker Oats in 2001.

 
&nbsp;

Quaker Oats is retiring the Aunt Jemima brand and logo, acknowledging its racial origins. In a statement provided to CNN Business, the Pepsi-owned company said, "As we work to make progress toward racial equality through several initiatives, we also must take a hard look at our portfolio of brands and ensure they reflect our values and meet our consumers' expectations.

Quaker Oats is retiring the Aunt Jemima brand and logo, acknowledging its racial origins. In a statement provided to CNN Business, the Pepsi-owned company said, "As we work to make progress toward racial equality through several initiatives, we also must take a hard look at our portfolio of brands and ensure they reflect our values and meet our consumers' expectations." This is happening in the aftermath of the nationwide, rather global, reckoning on race following the death of George Floyd, a black man, in police custody. The news was first reported by NBC News. The more than 130-year-old brand's origin and logo is based off the song "Old Aunt Jemima" from a minstrel show performer and reportedly sung by slaves. The company's website said the logo started in 1890 and was based on Nancy Green, a "storyteller, cook and missionary worker." However, the website fails to mention Green was born into slavery. The brand was earlier also called out for racist past. In a 2015 opinion piece published in the New York Times, Cornell University professor Riché Richardson said the logo is "very much linked to Southern racism." Richardson said the Aunt Jemima logo is based on a "'mammy,' a devoted and submissive servant who eagerly nurtured the children of her white master and mistress while neglecting her own." The company also ran racist ads for several decades, with actresses personifying the mammy stereotype. In 2017, the husband of the late B Smith called on the company to change it and said it was the epitome of "female humiliation." The Aunt Jemima brand was purchased by Quaker Oats in 1926. PepsiCo bought Quaker Oats in 2001.

Aunt Jemima brand acknowledges its racist past; will be retired

The United States is currently witnessing two crises: COVID-19, and stressful race relations which have spurred protests across the country.

What largely began in retaliation against the police killing of a black man, George Floyd, has turned into a bigger debate about racism in America, and police brutality targeting people of colour.

Japan’s richest man feels this will impact the global perception of the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/16-americans-who-went-to-a-bar-in-florida-return-home-with-covid-19-306553" hreflang="en">16 Americans who went to a bar in Florida return home with COVID-19</a>

In a conversation with CNN, Tadashi Yanai, the CEO of Uniqlo’s Fast Retailing said that he hopes the ongoing protests have a “positive impact” in the long-term, while juxtaposing it with the Civil Rights Movement.

The 71-year-old is Japan’s biggest billionaire, and one of the world’s most prosperous individuals. His company Fast Retailing is Asia’s biggest clothing retailer. As per Bloomberg data, his net worth is about $31.3 billion.

The company operates globally and its operations across major US cities like New York, Los Angeles have been hit hard. Yanai also referred to the political situation in the US as “untenable”, while calling for quick reformative action to end discrimination.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-wave-of-coronavirus-in-the-us-six-states-record-most-cases-ever-306544" hreflang="en">Second-wave of coronavirus in the US? Six states record most cases ever!</a>

He further told CNN that companies like his own are using this moment to bring about change in their own organisational set-up, and the purpose they serve in a post-pandemic world, where the distinctions between essentials and non-essentials become more pronounced.

The US is also witnessing a surge in the number of COVID-19 infections. The six American states to report record-high cases are Arizona, Florida, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Nevada. This comes in the aftermath of what many researchers claimed was the end of the country’s coronavirus peak. Many states have been forced to reopen in the middle of an economic crisis, with the country recording record unemployment rates after the lockdown.

The United States is currently witnessing two crises: COVID-19, and stressful race relations which have spurred protests across the country. What largely began in retaliation against the police killing of a black man, George Floyd, has turned into a bigger debate about racism in America, and police brutality targeting people of colour.

The United States is currently witnessing two crises: COVID-19, and stressful race relations which have spurred protests across the country. What largely began in retaliation against the police killing of a black man, George Floyd, has turned into a bigger debate about racism in America, and police brutality targeting people of colour. Japan’s richest man feels this will impact the global perception of the United States. Also read: 16 Americans who went to a bar in Florida return home with COVID-19 In a conversation with CNN, Tadashi Yanai, the CEO of Uniqlo’s Fast Retailing said that he hopes the ongoing protests have a “positive impact” in the long-term, while juxtaposing it with the Civil Rights Movement. The 71-year-old is Japan’s biggest billionaire, and one of the world’s most prosperous individuals. His company Fast Retailing is Asia’s biggest clothing retailer. As per Bloomberg data, his net worth is about $31.3 billion. The company operates globally and its operations across major US cities like New York, Los Angeles have been hit hard. Yanai also referred to the political situation in the US as “untenable”, while calling for quick reformative action to end discrimination. Also read: Second-wave of coronavirus in the US? Six states record most cases ever! He further told CNN that companies like his own are using this moment to bring about change in their own organisational set-up, and the purpose they serve in a post-pandemic world, where the distinctions between essentials and non-essentials become more pronounced. The US is also witnessing a surge in the number of COVID-19 infections. The six American states to report record-high cases are Arizona, Florida, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Nevada. This comes in the aftermath of what many researchers claimed was the end of the country’s coronavirus peak. Many states have been forced to reopen in the middle of an economic crisis, with the country recording record unemployment rates after the lockdown.

Global public perception of the US at stake, suggests Japan's richest man

A Georgia prosecutor is expected to announce on Wednesday whether a former Atlanta police officer will face any charges in the shooting of Rayshard Brooks at a Wendy's parking lot last week in the United States.

The case has entered the national conversation about police use of force and racial justice for African-Americans that started after George Floyd's death during an arrest by a white police officer in Minneapolis on May 25.

Fulton County District Attorney has said that if he charges former officer Garrett Rolfe it would likely be for murder or felony murder, as he believed Brooks posed no threat and gunning him down was an unreasonable use of force.

In addition to murder charges, voluntary manslaughter is also a possibility.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hes-going-to-change-the-world-george-floyd-hailed-at-funeral-304921">Also read | 'He's going to change the world': George Floyd hailed at funeral</a>

Brooks, 27, was reported asleep in a car in the drive-thru lane of a Wendy's on Friday, blocking traffic. A restaurant employee called 911, saying that a man wouldn't move the vehicle and appeared intoxicated.

After interaction with Rolfe and a second officer at the scene, Devin Brosnan, Brooks tussled with police and took off running with one of their Taser guns, as depicted in security and police video.

An autopsy conducted on Sunday showed that Brooks was shot twice in the back and died from blood loss and organ injuries, and the medical examiner's office ruled the death a homicide.

Multiple demonstrations ensued and the Wendy's was destroyed by fire during a protest over the weekend.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-burn-down-wendys-in-atlanta-after-police-shooting-305850">Also read | Protesters burn down Wendy's in Atlanta after police shooting</a>

Rolfe was fired from the force on Saturday and Brosnan was placed on administrative duties.&nbsp;

(with inputs from Reuters)

A Georgia prosecutor is expected to announce on Wednesday whether a former Atlanta police officer will face any charges in the shooting of Rayshard Brooks at a Wendy's parking lot last week in the United States.

A Georgia prosecutor is expected to announce on Wednesday whether a former Atlanta police officer will face any charges in the shooting of Rayshard Brooks at a Wendy's parking lot last week in the United States. The case has entered the national conversation about police use of force and racial justice for African-Americans that started after George Floyd's death during an arrest by a white police officer in Minneapolis on May 25. Fulton County District Attorney has said that if he charges former officer Garrett Rolfe it would likely be for murder or felony murder, as he believed Brooks posed no threat and gunning him down was an unreasonable use of force. In addition to murder charges, voluntary manslaughter is also a possibility. Also read | 'He's going to change the world': George Floyd hailed at funeral Brooks, 27, was reported asleep in a car in the drive-thru lane of a Wendy's on Friday, blocking traffic. A restaurant employee called 911, saying that a man wouldn't move the vehicle and appeared intoxicated. After interaction with Rolfe and a second officer at the scene, Devin Brosnan, Brooks tussled with police and took off running with one of their Taser guns, as depicted in security and police video. An autopsy conducted on Sunday showed that Brooks was shot twice in the back and died from blood loss and organ injuries, and the medical examiner's office ruled the death a homicide. Multiple demonstrations ensued and the Wendy's was destroyed by fire during a protest over the weekend. Also read | Protesters burn down Wendy's in Atlanta after police shooting Rolfe was fired from the force on Saturday and Brosnan was placed on administrative duties. (with inputs from Reuters)

Decision pending on charges in Atlanta police shooting death of Rayshard Brooks

Syria's central bank devalued the Syrian pound on Wednesday giving in to weeks of depreciation on the black market as new US sanctions took effect. 
 
The central bank raised the official exchange rate from 704 to 1,256 Syrian pounds to the dollar, in a statement published on its social media pages.&nbsp; 
 
The previous rate had been in force since March.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/opinions-blogs/china-shows-greater-interest-in-syria-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-and-deteriorating-ties-with-the-us-305295" hreflang="en">China shows greater interest in Syria amid coronavirus pandemic and deteriorating ties with the US</a> 
 
Earlier this month, the war-torn country's currency hit a record low on the black market of around 3,000 pounds to the dollar, sparking rare protests, before appreciating slightly after an apparent injection of dollars. 
 
On Wednesday, the rate on the parallel market stood at around 2,600 to 2,800 pounds to the dollar, traders told AFP. 
 
The devaluation comes as the United States prepares to implement new sanctions this week under the Caesar Act, targeting foreigners doing business with the Damascus government, as well as reconstruction of the country. 
 
Zaki Mehchy, a senior consulting fellow at the London-based Chatham House think tank, said the central bank was trying to minimise the gap between the official and black market rates.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/syria-records-20-new-coronavirus-cases-in-largest-single-day-increase-300964" hreflang="en">Syria records 20 new coronavirus cases in largest single-day increase</a> 
 
"It is trying to encourage people to use the official channel instead of the black market," he said. 
 
But the pound would probably continue its slide, punctuated by short periods of appreciation, he said.&nbsp; 
 
Syria's economy has been battered by nine years of war, and is now reeling from the knock-on effects of a financial crisis in neighbouring Lebanon that has stemmed the flow of dollars into government-held areas. 
 
Analysts have said the recent lows on the black market are likely due to worries ahead of the introduction of new US sanctions, and the sudden fall from grace of tycoon and cousin of the president, Rami Makhlouf, which has set other top businessmen on edge. 
 
The Damascus government has long blamed the country's economic crisis on international sanctions. 
 
Last week, President Bashar al-Assad sacked his prime minister of four years after criticism of the government's handling of the crisis. 
 
Before the conflict, the exchange rate stood at 47 Syrian pounds to the dollar.

Syria's central bank devalued the Syrian pound on Wednesday giving in to weeks of depreciation on the black market as new US sanctions took effect. The central bank raised the official exchange rate from 704 to 1,256 Syrian pounds to the dollar, in a statement published on its social media pages.

Syria's central bank devalued the Syrian pound on Wednesday giving in to weeks of depreciation on the black market as new US sanctions took effect. The central bank raised the official exchange rate from 704 to 1,256 Syrian pounds to the dollar, in a statement published on its social media pages. The previous rate had been in force since March. Also read: China shows greater interest in Syria amid coronavirus pandemic and deteriorating ties with the US Earlier this month, the war-torn country's currency hit a record low on the black market of around 3,000 pounds to the dollar, sparking rare protests, before appreciating slightly after an apparent injection of dollars. On Wednesday, the rate on the parallel market stood at around 2,600 to 2,800 pounds to the dollar, traders told AFP. The devaluation comes as the United States prepares to implement new sanctions this week under the Caesar Act, targeting foreigners doing business with the Damascus government, as well as reconstruction of the country. Zaki Mehchy, a senior consulting fellow at the London-based Chatham House think tank, said the central bank was trying to minimise the gap between the official and black market rates. Also read: Syria records 20 new coronavirus cases in largest single-day increase "It is trying to encourage people to use the official channel instead of the black market," he said. But the pound would probably continue its slide, punctuated by short periods of appreciation, he said. Syria's economy has been battered by nine years of war, and is now reeling from the knock-on effects of a financial crisis in neighbouring Lebanon that has stemmed the flow of dollars into government-held areas. Analysts have said the recent lows on the black market are likely due to worries ahead of the introduction of new US sanctions, and the sudden fall from grace of tycoon and cousin of the president, Rami Makhlouf, which has set other top businessmen on edge. The Damascus government has long blamed the country's economic crisis on international sanctions. Last week, President Bashar al-Assad sacked his prime minister of four years after criticism of the government's handling of the crisis. Before the conflict, the exchange rate stood at 47 Syrian pounds to the dollar.

Syria devalues currency as new US sanctions hit

Demonstrators in Richmond tore down another Confederate statue in the city on Tuesday night.

The Howitzers Monument located near Virginia Commonwealth University's Monroe Park campus was toppled after protesters used a rope to pull it down from its pedestal.

It's the third Confederate statue, and the fourth monument, to be torn down by demonstrators in Virginia since international protests erupted following the death of George Floyd, a black man who died after he was pinned to the pavement by a white Minneapolis officer who knelt on his neck.&nbsp;

Statues of Confederate president Jefferson Davis and Confederate Gen. Williams Carter Wickham as well as of Christopher Columbus were toppled by demonstrators in recent weeks.

A video from the Richmond Times-Dispatch showed the paint-splattered statue face down on the ground as the rain continued overnight in Virginia's capital city.

Protesters in Richmond started their march Tuesday night advocating for the removal of all Confederate statues, establishing a civilian review board over police actions and defunding the police.

The Howitzers Monument showed a Confederate artilleryman standing in front of a gun. It was erected in 1892 to memorialise the city's Civil War artillery unit.

Demonstrators in Richmond tore down another Confederate statue in the city on Tuesday night. The Howitzers Monument located near Virginia Commonwealth University's Monroe Park campus was toppled after protesters used a rope to pull it down from its pedestal.

Demonstrators in Richmond tore down another Confederate statue in the city on Tuesday night. The Howitzers Monument located near Virginia Commonwealth University's Monroe Park campus was toppled after protesters used a rope to pull it down from its pedestal. It's the third Confederate statue, and the fourth monument, to be torn down by demonstrators in Virginia since international protests erupted following the death of George Floyd, a black man who died after he was pinned to the pavement by a white Minneapolis officer who knelt on his neck. Statues of Confederate president Jefferson Davis and Confederate Gen. Williams Carter Wickham as well as of Christopher Columbus were toppled by demonstrators in recent weeks. A video from the Richmond Times-Dispatch showed the paint-splattered statue face down on the ground as the rain continued overnight in Virginia's capital city. Protesters in Richmond started their march Tuesday night advocating for the removal of all Confederate statues, establishing a civilian review board over police actions and defunding the police. The Howitzers Monument showed a Confederate artilleryman standing in front of a gun. It was erected in 1892 to memorialise the city's Civil War artillery unit.

Protesters in Richmond, US tear down another Confederate statue

Premier League's chief executive Richard Masters has said that he supports the move to have slogan &nbsp;'Black Lives Matter' on player's shirts for at least this week's games as it represented an ethical stance rather than a political one.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-city-vs-arsenal-preview-a-battle-between-the-master-and-apprentice-306462" hreflang="en">Man City vs Arsenal Preview: A battle between the master and apprentice</a>

The much-awaited Premier League restart on Wednesday and will witness Manchester City hosting Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. The blockbuster clash will be played behind closed doors but it won’t matter to the football fanatics much as they will be seeing Premier League coming back on track following a prolonged break due to COVID-19.

"I support them in using their platforms to push good causes. The messages you are going to see coming through the Premier League matches in relation to thanking the NHS, with the 'Heart NHS' logo on the front of shirts and also the anti-discrimination messages coming forward, are issues that all players feel," Masters told Sky Sports on Tuesday.

"I think it is a good thing that players are using their voices to make what I think are ethical value judgements rather than political statements. They are supposed to be unifying messages, and we support them and so do the clubs," he added.

Masters said that concrete policies must be introduced to follow up Black Lives Matter movement, however, &nbsp;he said that the League has no plans to introduce a US-style rule to ensure members of minorities are interviewed for any vacant coaching positions.

"Whatever the campaign messages might be, the promotion as it were, there needs to be significant policies and programmes behind it that are making a difference. There is a strong and long-standing commitment from the Premier League and all our clubs to anti-discrimination. We are going to continue to listen to players," he said.

Premier League's chief executive Richard Masters has said that he supports the move to have slogan 'Black Lives Matter' on player's shirts for at least this week's games as it represented an ethical stance rather than a political one.

Premier League's chief executive Richard Masters has said that he supports the move to have slogan 'Black Lives Matter' on player's shirts for at least this week's games as it represented an ethical stance rather than a political one. Also read: Man City vs Arsenal Preview: A battle between the master and apprentice The much-awaited Premier League restart on Wednesday and will witness Manchester City hosting Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. The blockbuster clash will be played behind closed doors but it won’t matter to the football fanatics much as they will be seeing Premier League coming back on track following a prolonged break due to COVID-19. "I support them in using their platforms to push good causes. The messages you are going to see coming through the Premier League matches in relation to thanking the NHS, with the 'Heart NHS' logo on the front of shirts and also the anti-discrimination messages coming forward, are issues that all players feel," Masters told Sky Sports on Tuesday. "I think it is a good thing that players are using their voices to make what I think are ethical value judgements rather than political statements. They are supposed to be unifying messages, and we support them and so do the clubs," he added. Masters said that concrete policies must be introduced to follow up Black Lives Matter movement, however, he said that the League has no plans to introduce a US-style rule to ensure members of minorities are interviewed for any vacant coaching positions. "Whatever the campaign messages might be, the promotion as it were, there needs to be significant policies and programmes behind it that are making a difference. There is a strong and long-standing commitment from the Premier League and all our clubs to anti-discrimination. We are going to continue to listen to players," he said.

Premier League CEO Richard Masters supports 'Black Lives Matter' on team jerseys

Three weeks after George Floyd died in police custody in Minneapolis City, anti-racist protesters across the US say that their work is far from over. They keep on criticizing entrenched bias in law authorization and call for major reforms in it.

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The momentum against racism and police brutality is growing with every passing day. Westbound traffic on the Bay Bridge was at a standstill on Sunday evening for nearly two hours after all lanes were blocked by protesters.

Multiple local news outlets reported that protesters spray-painted "BLM," the initials to Black Lives Matter, onto the bridge in yellow before being stopped by authorities

In Detroit, thousands of protesters marched through the streets. One demonstrator covered the statue of General Alexander Macomb. He was the Commanding General of the United States Army from May 29, 1828, until his death on June 25, 1841.

In Chicago, protesters organised the drag march for a change, with drag queens speaking in support of the black lives matter movement.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Floyd's death was not an isolated incident the united states has been accused of systemic racism and unjustified use of force.

Another death over the weekend underlined these allegations.

Another black man Rayshard Brooks, 27, was fatally shot by police at a Wendy's drive-thru after officials said he resisted arrest and stole an officer's Taser.&nbsp;

Mass protests followed Rayshard's death, protesters set ablaze the wendy's outside which Rayshard was shot. Experts say that the use of the deadly force was unjustified.

One lawyer points at qualified immunity behind these police shootouts.

Lawyer Jeff Storms says that &nbsp;"and what qualified immunity is, is that if you sue a police officer for violation of constitutional rights, they have this immunity where, if their behaviour was not done in almost an exact way before, even though they've violated someone's constitutional rights, they cannot be held civilly viable."

Floyd's death has also sparked the call for defunding the police.&nbsp;

The Minneapolis city council has passed a resolution. The city will be replacing the police department with a community-led public safety wing. Trump tweeted calling the move 'crazy'&nbsp;

Supporters of the anti-racist movement have called for the action as one step toward combating what they view as institutionalized racism within police departments.

After this huge unrest in the United States, one thing is clear that once this movement blows over, policing in the US Will never be the same again.&nbsp;

Three weeks after George Floyd died in police custody in Minneapolis City, anti-racist protesters across the US say that their work is far from over. They keep on criticizing entrenched bias in law authorization and call for major reforms in it.

Three weeks after George Floyd died in police custody in Minneapolis City, anti-racist protesters across the US say that their work is far from over. They keep on criticizing entrenched bias in law authorization and call for major reforms in it. The momentum against racism and police brutality is growing with every passing day. Westbound traffic on the Bay Bridge was at a standstill on Sunday evening for nearly two hours after all lanes were blocked by protesters. Multiple local news outlets reported that protesters spray-painted "BLM," the initials to Black Lives Matter, onto the bridge in yellow before being stopped by authorities In Detroit, thousands of protesters marched through the streets. One demonstrator covered the statue of General Alexander Macomb. He was the Commanding General of the United States Army from May 29, 1828, until his death on June 25, 1841. In Chicago, protesters organised the drag march for a change, with drag queens speaking in support of the black lives matter movement. Floyd's death was not an isolated incident the united states has been accused of systemic racism and unjustified use of force. Another death over the weekend underlined these allegations. Another black man Rayshard Brooks, 27, was fatally shot by police at a Wendy's drive-thru after officials said he resisted arrest and stole an officer's Taser. Mass protests followed Rayshard's death, protesters set ablaze the wendy's outside which Rayshard was shot. Experts say that the use of the deadly force was unjustified. One lawyer points at qualified immunity behind these police shootouts. Lawyer Jeff Storms says that "and what qualified immunity is, is that if you sue a police officer for violation of constitutional rights, they have this immunity where, if their behaviour was not done in almost an exact way before, even though they've violated someone's constitutional rights, they cannot be held civilly viable." Floyd's death has also sparked the call for defunding the police. The Minneapolis city council has passed a resolution. The city will be replacing the police department with a community-led public safety wing. Trump tweeted calling the move 'crazy' Supporters of the anti-racist movement have called for the action as one step toward combating what they view as institutionalized racism within police departments. After this huge unrest in the United States, one thing is clear that once this movement blows over, policing in the US Will never be the same again.

US policing needs radical reform and removal of racist officers

The Supreme Court ruled Monday that a landmark civil rights law protects gay, lesbian and transgender people from discrimination in employment, a resounding victory for LGBT rights from a conservative court.

LGBT community applaud Supreme Court ruling

Relatives of Rayshard Brooks, many of them in tears, called for justice and "drastic change" in policing after a white Atlanta officer fatally shot the African-American man in the back, and the city's mayor called for a shake-up in the force.

The death of 27-year-old Brooks, which the Fulton County Medical Examiner's office ruled a homicide, was the latest killing of a black man to spark nationwide outrage at police brutality and racial injustice.

"We're tired and we are frustrated. Most importantly we're heartbroken, so we need justice for Rayshard Brooks," his cousin, Tiara Brooks, said at a news conference.

"The trust that we have in the police force is broken. The only way to heal some of these wounds is through a conviction and a drastic change in the police department," she added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/atlanta-police-chief-resigns-after-officer-kills-black-man-amid-protests-against-racism-and-police-brutality-305689">Also read:&nbsp;Atlanta police chief resigns after officer kills black man amid protests against racism and police brutality</a>

Relatives spoke of Brooks as a warm family man who loved to take his daughter skating. One man, after breaking down in tears, left distraught, shouting, "Somebody took my cousin!"

More than 1,000 people marched on the Georgia state Capitol in Atlanta on Monday, calling for justice for Brooks and other slain African Americans.

"We are going to take over the capitol every single day until they do their job," the Rev. James Woodall, president of the state NAACP civil rights group, told the crowd, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and other media reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-policing-needs-radical-reform-and-removal-of-racist-officers-306116">Also read:&nbsp;US policing needs radical reform and removal of racist officers</a>

As the crowd chanted for justice, the Georgia Assembly rebooted its 2020 session with a renewed call to pass a hate-crime law. Georgia is one of four U.S. states without such a law, which increases punishment for offences deemed to be racially motivated.

The death of Brooks, and the separate shooting of a black jogger, Ahmaud Arbery, near the coastal town of Brunswick in February involving a former law enforcement officer, has driven calls for racial justice in Georgia.

Atlanta Mayor Keisha Bottoms announced immediate reforms within the police department, including orders requiring police officers to de-escalate situations and requiring officers to intervene when they see a colleague using excessive force.

Bottoms told a media briefing that she was heartbroken and angry over Brooks' death.

"It pissed me off, it makes me sad, it makes me frustrated and there's nothing I can say that will change what happened Friday."

She said she could not wait for an advisory council to come up with police reform recommendations.

"It was clear that we do not have another day, another minute, another hour, to waste," she said, adding the police must find better ways to handle confrontations.

Vince Champion, southeast regional director for the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, urged against a rush to judgment.

"We don't know everything. We are basing what we saw on a video that has no context to it," Champion told Reuters. "I do believe that the powers that be – the mayor and the DA are just trying to appease the rioters."

President Donald Trump told reporters the shooting in Atlanta was "a terrible situation" and "very disturbing".

Relatives of Rayshard Brooks, many of them in tears, called for justice and "drastic change" in policing after a white Atlanta officer fatally shot the African-American man in the back, and the city's mayor called for a shake-up in the force.

Relatives of Rayshard Brooks, many of them in tears, called for justice and "drastic change" in policing after a white Atlanta officer fatally shot the African-American man in the back, and the city's mayor called for a shake-up in the force. The death of 27-year-old Brooks, which the Fulton County Medical Examiner's office ruled a homicide, was the latest killing of a black man to spark nationwide outrage at police brutality and racial injustice. "We're tired and we are frustrated. Most importantly we're heartbroken, so we need justice for Rayshard Brooks," his cousin, Tiara Brooks, said at a news conference. "The trust that we have in the police force is broken. The only way to heal some of these wounds is through a conviction and a drastic change in the police department," she added. Also read: Atlanta police chief resigns after officer kills black man amid protests against racism and police brutality Relatives spoke of Brooks as a warm family man who loved to take his daughter skating. One man, after breaking down in tears, left distraught, shouting, "Somebody took my cousin!" More than 1,000 people marched on the Georgia state Capitol in Atlanta on Monday, calling for justice for Brooks and other slain African Americans. "We are going to take over the capitol every single day until they do their job," the Rev. James Woodall, president of the state NAACP civil rights group, told the crowd, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and other media reported. Also read: US policing needs radical reform and removal of racist officers As the crowd chanted for justice, the Georgia Assembly rebooted its 2020 session with a renewed call to pass a hate-crime law. Georgia is one of four U.S. states without such a law, which increases punishment for offences deemed to be racially motivated. The death of Brooks, and the separate shooting of a black jogger, Ahmaud Arbery, near the coastal town of Brunswick in February involving a former law enforcement officer, has driven calls for racial justice in Georgia. Atlanta Mayor Keisha Bottoms announced immediate reforms within the police department, including orders requiring police officers to de-escalate situations and requiring officers to intervene when they see a colleague using excessive force. Bottoms told a media briefing that she was heartbroken and angry over Brooks' death. "It pissed me off, it makes me sad, it makes me frustrated and there's nothing I can say that will change what happened Friday." She said she could not wait for an advisory council to come up with police reform recommendations. "It was clear that we do not have another day, another minute, another hour, to waste," she said, adding the police must find better ways to handle confrontations. Vince Champion, southeast regional director for the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, urged against a rush to judgment. "We don't know everything. We are basing what we saw on a video that has no context to it," Champion told Reuters. "I do believe that the powers that be – the mayor and the DA are just trying to appease the rioters." President Donald Trump told reporters the shooting in Atlanta was "a terrible situation" and "very disturbing".

Family demands justice after Atlanta police fatally shoot Rayshard Brooks in the back

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