<p>All the three men, who were arrested for killing &nbsp;Ahmoud Arbery, a young black jogger, have been charged with murder by a grand jury on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rhode-island-to-change-official-name-over-links-to-colonial-slavery-governor-signs-executive-orders-308381" hreflang="en">Rhode Island to change official name over links to colonial slavery; Governor signs executive orders</a></p>

<p>25-year-old Arbury was shot dead on February 23 while running in a residential area of Brunswick, Georgia, which has a long history of segregation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There were no arrests for over two months until the video of him being killed resurfaced online and went viral. In the video, Retired police officer Gregory McMichael, 64, and his son Travis, 34, were visible and were arrested on May 7. William Bryan, the guy who filmed the video was arrested two weeks later.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooters-of-georgia-black-man-used-n-word-after-shooting-investigator-testifies-303485">Shooters of Georgia black man used 'N' word after shooting, investigator testifies</a></p>

<p>The charges were formally indicted on Wednesday by a grand jury, a group of citizens appointed to weigh how valid a charge is ahead of a trial.</p>

<p>Nine counts, including murder, aggravated assault and false imprisonment were laid against the three men.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They "caused his death by unlawfully chasing him... in pickup trucks and shooting him with a shotgun," the document said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This confirms what Ahmaud's father has been saying for months -- that this was a lynching," Ben Crump, a lawyer for Arbery's family, said in a statement Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is a significant step on the road to justice and while nothing will bring back Ahmaud Arbery's life, it is important that a Grand jury recognized his life had value and was wrongly and ruthlessly ended," he said, calling for a "successful prosecution" and proportionate sentences. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Arbery's name was chanted by the anti-racism protestors in the United States. The 25-year-old joined the list with George Floyd in terms of being a victim in systemic racism against African Americans. The killing of George Floyd on May 35, kicked off massive protests across the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(Inputs from AFP)</em></p>


All the three men, who were arrested for killing Ahmoud Arbery, a young black jogger, have been charged with murder by a grand jury on Wednesday. Also read: Rhode Island to change official name over links to colonial slavery; Governor signs executive orders 25-year-old Arbury was shot dead on February 23 while running in a residential area of Brunswick, Georgia, which has a long history of segregation.

All the three men, who were arrested for killing Ahmoud Arbery, a young black jogger, have been charged with murder by a grand jury on Wednesday. Also read: Rhode Island to change official name over links to colonial slavery; Governor signs executive orders 25-year-old Arbury was shot dead on February 23 while running in a residential area of Brunswick, Georgia, which has a long history of segregation. There were no arrests for over two months until the video of him being killed resurfaced online and went viral. In the video, Retired police officer Gregory McMichael, 64, and his son Travis, 34, were visible and were arrested on May 7. William Bryan, the guy who filmed the video was arrested two weeks later. Also read: Shooters of Georgia black man used 'N' word after shooting, investigator testifies The charges were formally indicted on Wednesday by a grand jury, a group of citizens appointed to weigh how valid a charge is ahead of a trial. Nine counts, including murder, aggravated assault and false imprisonment were laid against the three men. They "caused his death by unlawfully chasing him... in pickup trucks and shooting him with a shotgun," the document said. "This confirms what Ahmaud's father has been saying for months -- that this was a lynching," Ben Crump, a lawyer for Arbery's family, said in a statement Wednesday. "This is a significant step on the road to justice and while nothing will bring back Ahmaud Arbery's life, it is important that a Grand jury recognized his life had value and was wrongly and ruthlessly ended," he said, calling for a "successful prosecution" and proportionate sentences. Arbery's name was chanted by the anti-racism protestors in the United States. The 25-year-old joined the list with George Floyd in terms of being a victim in systemic racism against African Americans. The killing of George Floyd on May 35, kicked off massive protests across the United States. (Inputs from AFP)

All three men involved in killing of black jogger Ahmaud Arbery charged with murder

<p>Eleanor Holmes Norton, Washington, D.C.’s congressional delegate, said on Tuesday that she will introduce legislation to remove the statue of Abraham Lincoln from Lincoln Park on Capitol Hill.</p>

<p><strong>Watch Video:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/black-lives-matter-protests-statues-toppled-across-united-states-307317/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Lincoln Park "Emancipation" statue has become a target of Black Lives Matter protesters with&nbsp;demonstrations gripping America in the wake of George Floyd's killing by a Minneapolis cop on May 25.</p>

<p>Last week, protesters had torn down a statue of Confederate general Albert Pike in the capital and set it on fire. Donald Trump said that "these people should be immediately arrested" while saying that the D.C. police was not "doing their job as they watch a statue be ripped down &amp; burn".</p>

<p>“Although formerly enslaved Americans paid for this statue to be built in 1876, the design and sculpting process was done without their input and it shows,” Holmes Norton said, adding, "The statue fails to note in any way how enslaved African Americans pushed for their own emancipation.”</p>

<p>Protesters had vowed to remove the statue at Lincoln Park as demonstrators&nbsp;tried to topple the statue of former president Andrew Jackson. Statues in the United States have come under the scrutiny of the Black Live Matter movement with several being targeted. The statue of former president Thomas Jefferson who had drawn up the US Declaration of Independence was vandalised. He&nbsp;allegedly owned slaves.</p>

<p>New York is set to remove a statue of former president Theodore Roosevelt from the entrance of the American Museum of Natural History as it shows the former US president on horseback with a black man and a native American man on foot.</p>

<p>Protesters have mainly targeted statues of Confederate States during the American Civil War, which pitted the pro-slavery South against anti-slavery North in the United States as the statue of Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederate States was stuck down by protesters in Virginia.&nbsp;</p>


Eleanor Holmes Norton, Washington, D.C.’s congressional delegate, said on Tuesday that she will introduce legislation to remove the statue of Abraham Lincoln from Lincoln Park on Capitol Hill.

Eleanor Holmes Norton, Washington, D.C.’s congressional delegate, said on Tuesday that she will introduce legislation to remove the statue of Abraham Lincoln from Lincoln Park on Capitol Hill. Watch Video: The Lincoln Park "Emancipation" statue has become a target of Black Lives Matter protesters with demonstrations gripping America in the wake of George Floyd's killing by a Minneapolis cop on May 25. Last week, protesters had torn down a statue of Confederate general Albert Pike in the capital and set it on fire. Donald Trump said that "these people should be immediately arrested" while saying that the D.C. police was not "doing their job as they watch a statue be ripped down & burn". “Although formerly enslaved Americans paid for this statue to be built in 1876, the design and sculpting process was done without their input and it shows,” Holmes Norton said, adding, "The statue fails to note in any way how enslaved African Americans pushed for their own emancipation.” Protesters had vowed to remove the statue at Lincoln Park as demonstrators tried to topple the statue of former president Andrew Jackson. Statues in the United States have come under the scrutiny of the Black Live Matter movement with several being targeted. The statue of former president Thomas Jefferson who had drawn up the US Declaration of Independence was vandalised. He allegedly owned slaves. New York is set to remove a statue of former president Theodore Roosevelt from the entrance of the American Museum of Natural History as it shows the former US president on horseback with a black man and a native American man on foot. Protesters have mainly targeted statues of Confederate States during the American Civil War, which pitted the pro-slavery South against anti-slavery North in the United States as the statue of Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederate States was stuck down by protesters in Virginia.

Washington delegate to introduce legislation to remove Lincoln statue

<p>Legions of K-pop fans and TikTok users are taking credit for upending Donald Trump's weekend rally after block-reserving tickets with no intention to attend an event that was beset by an embarrassingly low turnout.<br />
<br />
Prior to the event in Tulsa, Oklahoma -- hyped as a major relaunch ahead of the November election -- Trump's campaign chairman tweeted that more than a million tickets had been requested.<br />
<br />
But according to the local fire department, just 6,200 people attended.<br />
<br />
Viral posts on TikTok and Twitter revealed that plans to reserve tickets en masse had been circulating for days, racking up hundreds of thousands of views.<br />
<br />
One video urged fans of the South Korean "K-pop" sensation BTS -- one of the world's most popular bands, with more than 21 million Twitter followers -- to participate in the plot.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/k-pop-fans-and-tiktok-users-played-trump-hundreds-of-seats-remain-empty-in-tulsa-rally-307532" hreflang="en">K-Pop fans and TikTok users played Trump; hundreds of seats remain empty in Tulsa rally</a></p>

<p>"Oh no, I signed up for a Trump rally, and I can't go," said one woman who coughed sarcastically in a separate TikTok video.<br />
<br />
Brad Parscale, Trump's campaign manager, blamed "radical protestors" for "interfering" with the rally.<br />
<br />
But Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the 30-year-old leftist congresswoman from New York, clapped back: "You just got ROCKED by teens on TikTok."<br />
<br />
"KPop allies, we see and appreciate your contributions in the fight for justice too," she added.<br />
<br />
<strong>- 'Socially conscious' fans -</strong><br />
<br />
Though ascertaining the concrete impact of the viral campaign on the rally's attendance is near impossible, the action spotlighted K-pop's tradition as a politically engaged fandom.<br />
<br />
Just in the past month, fans of the globally dominant pop genre -- which was born approximately 25 years ago in South Korea -- co-opted the hashtag #WhiteLivesMatter by flooding it with K-pop related imagery to drown out racist tweets.<br />
"K-pop has a culture of being responsible," said CedarBough Saeji, an academic expert of the genre based out of Indiana University.<br />
<br />
"K-pop fans in general are outward-looking, socially conscious people and K-pop in the United States is very heavily supported by people of color, by people who identify as being LGBTQ," she told AFP.<br />
<br />
K-pop superstars, known as idols, are expected to be role models, Saeji explained, and often inspire ardent fandoms.<br />
Though adorers would often send gifts to their favorite performers, many stars instead ask support be sent to charities instead.<br />
<br />
After BTS dropped $1 million behind the Black Lives Matter movement, a fan collective charity -- known as One in An ARMY -- raised another million to match.<br />
<br />
"BTS songs have played a role in motivating us to be confident with ourselves, to be kind to others, and to be there for one another," said Dawnica Nadora, a 27-year-old volunteer for the charity's US arm.<br />
<br />
In 2018 the powerhouse boy band addressed the United Nations, urging young people to engage their own convictions.<br />
Seiji pointed to a "messaging of positivity" behind the current activism from fans.<br />
<br />
"K-pop attracts people who like this kind of music but also who want to make the world a better place."<br />
<br />
<strong>- 'Powerful flex' -</strong><br />
<br />
That socially conscious attitude coupled with internet savvy makes K-pop fandom a mighty force.<br />
<br />
"Fans are online all the time... K-pop organizers are primarily on Twitter," said Seiji, who said fans' understanding of internet algorithms makes them a powerful group when it comes to online organizing.<br />
<br />
According to the social media platform, #KpopTwitter posted a record 6.1 billion tweets in 2019.<br />
<br />
"We are very lucky that ARMYs support one another, despite often being thousands of miles away from each other," volunteer and BTS fan Nadora told AFP.<br />
<br />
And though some political analysts cast the viral effort to rain on Trump's parade as just a prank, a number of commentators including Seiji said it amounts to much more.<br />
<br />
"They corrupted all of this data that the Trump campaign was trying to collect," she said. "They basically showed the campaign, you're not going to be able to trust any of your numbers in the future."<br />
<br />
"That is a powerful flex."<br />
<br />
Seiji also said the action gave youth online evidence of their own agency to provoke change.<br />
<br />
"If they believe they can make a difference, they're also going to believe that voting is worthwhile."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Legions of K-pop fans and TikTok users are taking credit for upending Donald Trump's weekend rally after block-reserving tickets with no intention to attend an event that was beset by an embarrassingly low turnout.

Legions of K-pop fans and TikTok users are taking credit for upending Donald Trump's weekend rally after block-reserving tickets with no intention to attend an event that was beset by an embarrassingly low turnout. Prior to the event in Tulsa, Oklahoma -- hyped as a major relaunch ahead of the November election -- Trump's campaign chairman tweeted that more than a million tickets had been requested. But according to the local fire department, just 6,200 people attended. Viral posts on TikTok and Twitter revealed that plans to reserve tickets en masse had been circulating for days, racking up hundreds of thousands of views. One video urged fans of the South Korean "K-pop" sensation BTS -- one of the world's most popular bands, with more than 21 million Twitter followers -- to participate in the plot. K-Pop fans and TikTok users played Trump; hundreds of seats remain empty in Tulsa rally "Oh no, I signed up for a Trump rally, and I can't go," said one woman who coughed sarcastically in a separate TikTok video. Brad Parscale, Trump's campaign manager, blamed "radical protestors" for "interfering" with the rally. But Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the 30-year-old leftist congresswoman from New York, clapped back: "You just got ROCKED by teens on TikTok." "KPop allies, we see and appreciate your contributions in the fight for justice too," she added. - 'Socially conscious' fans - Though ascertaining the concrete impact of the viral campaign on the rally's attendance is near impossible, the action spotlighted K-pop's tradition as a politically engaged fandom. Just in the past month, fans of the globally dominant pop genre -- which was born approximately 25 years ago in South Korea -- co-opted the hashtag #WhiteLivesMatter by flooding it with K-pop related imagery to drown out racist tweets. "K-pop has a culture of being responsible," said CedarBough Saeji, an academic expert of the genre based out of Indiana University. "K-pop fans in general are outward-looking, socially conscious people and K-pop in the United States is very heavily supported by people of color, by people who identify as being LGBTQ," she told AFP. K-pop superstars, known as idols, are expected to be role models, Saeji explained, and often inspire ardent fandoms. Though adorers would often send gifts to their favorite performers, many stars instead ask support be sent to charities instead. After BTS dropped $1 million behind the Black Lives Matter movement, a fan collective charity -- known as One in An ARMY -- raised another million to match. "BTS songs have played a role in motivating us to be confident with ourselves, to be kind to others, and to be there for one another," said Dawnica Nadora, a 27-year-old volunteer for the charity's US arm. In 2018 the powerhouse boy band addressed the United Nations, urging young people to engage their own convictions. Seiji pointed to a "messaging of positivity" behind the current activism from fans. "K-pop attracts people who like this kind of music but also who want to make the world a better place." - 'Powerful flex' - That socially conscious attitude coupled with internet savvy makes K-pop fandom a mighty force. "Fans are online all the time... K-pop organizers are primarily on Twitter," said Seiji, who said fans' understanding of internet algorithms makes them a powerful group when it comes to online organizing. According to the social media platform, #KpopTwitter posted a record 6.1 billion tweets in 2019. "We are very lucky that ARMYs support one another, despite often being thousands of miles away from each other," volunteer and BTS fan Nadora told AFP. And though some political analysts cast the viral effort to rain on Trump's parade as just a prank, a number of commentators including Seiji said it amounts to much more. "They corrupted all of this data that the Trump campaign was trying to collect," she said. "They basically showed the campaign, you're not going to be able to trust any of your numbers in the future." "That is a powerful flex." Seiji also said the action gave youth online evidence of their own agency to provoke change. "If they believe they can make a difference, they're also going to believe that voting is worthwhile."

Online disruption of Donald Trump's rally highlights K-pop's political hustle

<p>Six-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton took part in the latest anti-racism protests in London on Sunday. He described his experience during the march as "really moving".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-lewis-hamilton-launches-commission-to-push-diversity-in-motorsport-307420" hreflang="en">Formula One: Lewis Hamilton launches commission to push diversity in motorsport</a></p>

<p>The 35-year-old is the only black racer in the motorsport and has always been outspoken about the racism he has faced in his prolific career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Went down to Hyde Park today for the peaceful protest and I was so proud to see in person so many people of all races and backgrounds supporting this movement," Hamilton wrote on Instagram.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CBtUH0OBRf3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Went down to Hyde Park today for the peaceful protest and I was so proud to see in person so many people of all races and backgrounds supporting this movement. I was proud to be out there acknowledging and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, and my black heritage. I was so happy to see people of all ages, sporting Black Lives Matter signs and saying it just as passionately as I was. I was also happy to see so many white supporters out there today in the name of equality for all. It was really moving. I’m feeling extremely positive that change will come, but we cannot stop now. Keep pushing. #blacklivesmatter ✊🏾 📸 @spinzbeatsinc</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lewishamilton/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Lewis Hamilton</a> (@lewishamilton) on <time datetime="2020-06-21T18:58:31+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jun 21, 2020 at 11:58am PDT</time></p>
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<p>"I was proud to be out there acknowledging and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, and my black heritage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was also happy to see so many white supporters out there in the name of equality for all. It was really moving. I'm feeling extremely positive that change will come, but we cannot stop now. Keep pushing."</p>

<p>He held a banner which read 'Black Lives Matter' and wore a T-shirt which said 'Black is a vibe'.</p>

<p>Earlier, British Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has decided to begin a commission to help motorsport engage more young people from black backgrounds and drive diversity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Formula One driver said that he is working with the Royal Academy of Engineering to create a research partnership, the Hamilton Commission, as per his column in the Sunday Times newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hamilton spoke about the times he has been a victim of racism during his prolific career and despite success "the institutional barriers that have kept F1 highly exclusive persist.</p>

<p>"It is not enough to point to me, or a single new black hire, as a meaningful example of progress. Thousands of people are employed across this industry and that group needs to be more representative of society," he added.</p>


Six-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton took part in the latest anti-racism protests in London on Sunday. He described his experience during the march as "really moving".

Six-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton took part in the latest anti-racism protests in London on Sunday. He described his experience during the march as "really moving". Also read: Formula One: Lewis Hamilton launches commission to push diversity in motorsport The 35-year-old is the only black racer in the motorsport and has always been outspoken about the racism he has faced in his prolific career. "Went down to Hyde Park today for the peaceful protest and I was so proud to see in person so many people of all races and backgrounds supporting this movement," Hamilton wrote on Instagram. View this post on Instagram Went down to Hyde Park today for the peaceful protest and I was so proud to see in person so many people of all races and backgrounds supporting this movement. I was proud to be out there acknowledging and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, and my black heritage. I was so happy to see people of all ages, sporting Black Lives Matter signs and saying it just as passionately as I was. I was also happy to see so many white supporters out there today in the name of equality for all. It was really moving. I’m feeling extremely positive that change will come, but we cannot stop now. Keep pushing. #blacklivesmatter ✊🏾 📸 @spinzbeatsinc A post shared by Lewis Hamilton (@lewishamilton) on Jun 21, 2020 at 11:58am PDT × "I was proud to be out there acknowledging and supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, and my black heritage. "I was also happy to see so many white supporters out there in the name of equality for all. It was really moving. I'm feeling extremely positive that change will come, but we cannot stop now. Keep pushing." He held a banner which read 'Black Lives Matter' and wore a T-shirt which said 'Black is a vibe'. Earlier, British Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has decided to begin a commission to help motorsport engage more young people from black backgrounds and drive diversity. The Formula One driver said that he is working with the Royal Academy of Engineering to create a research partnership, the Hamilton Commission, as per his column in the Sunday Times newspaper. Hamilton spoke about the times he has been a victim of racism during his prolific career and despite success "the institutional barriers that have kept F1 highly exclusive persist. "It is not enough to point to me, or a single new black hire, as a meaningful example of progress. Thousands of people are employed across this industry and that group needs to be more representative of society," he added.

Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton takes part in anti-racism protests in London

<p>The bronze statue of 26th US President Theodore Roosevelt on horseback and flanked by an African American and a Native American is being taken down by the American Museum of Natural History from outside its main entrance where it was placed in 1940.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="xaA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33bbb604-951d-4a24-8e21-c18db4068a02" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_110.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/muhammad-alis-son-says-dad-wouldnt-have-supported-protests-over-george-floyds-death-307494">Dad wouldn't have supported protests over George Floyd's death: Muhammad Ali</a></p>

<p>The decision came after several statues of colonial figures were brought down across the United States. These figures were linked to slavery and the dispossession of indigenous Americans and were being vandalized as the protests against racism continues to rage in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Roosevelt was the American President from 1901 to 1909, he helped the museum to form its collection.</p>

<p>Earlier, another US President, Ulysses S Grant's statue was taken down from San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Grant led Union armies to victory in the civil war and as president fought the Ku Klux Klan. But before defeating the slave-owning Confederacy he married into a slave-owning family and briefly owned a slave himself.</p>

<p>In an interview with the New York Times, museum president Ellen Futter said: &nbsp;"Over the last few weeks, our museum community has been profoundly moved by the ever-widening movement for racial justice that has emerged after the killing of George Floyd."<br />
&nbsp;<br />
George Floyd was an African American, who was killed in Minneapolis after a police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. His death sparked the rage of violent protests across the world. These protests were against such killings and all police brutality and systemic racism.</p>

<p>The statue of Theodore Roosevelt has been a target of the protestors and calls for it being taken down are been made for some time now as it depicts blacks and indigenous people to be inferior.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have watched as the attention of the world and the country has increasingly turned to statues as powerful and hurtful symbols of systemic racism," Futter said. "Simply put, the time has come to move it."</p>

<p>New York's mayor Bill de Blasio, who is a democrat, has said that the museum had asked to remove the statue "because it explicitly depicts black and indigenous people as subjugated and racially inferior. The city supports the museum’s request. It is the right decision and the right time to remove this problematic statue."</p>

<p>The great-grandson of the former president, Theodore Roosevelt IV is a museum trustee and he told the New York Times that he supports the decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The world does not need statues, relics of another age, that reflect neither the values of the person they intend to honour nor the values of equality and justice,” he said. “The composition of the Equestrian Statue does not reflect Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy. It is time to move the statue and move forward.”</p>

<p>Ellen Futter said: “It’s very important to note that our request is based on the statue, that is the hierarchical composition that’s depicted in it."</p>

<p>"It is not about Theodore Roosevelt who served as governor of New York before becoming the 26th president of the United States and was a pioneering conservationist," she said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The bronze statue of 26th US President Theodore Roosevelt on horseback and flanked by an African American and a Native American is being taken down by the American Museum of Natural History from outside its main entrance where it was placed in 1940.

The bronze statue of 26th US President Theodore Roosevelt on horseback and flanked by an African American and a Native American is being taken down by the American Museum of Natural History from outside its main entrance where it was placed in 1940. Also read: Dad wouldn't have supported protests over George Floyd's death: Muhammad Ali The decision came after several statues of colonial figures were brought down across the United States. These figures were linked to slavery and the dispossession of indigenous Americans and were being vandalized as the protests against racism continues to rage in the country. Roosevelt was the American President from 1901 to 1909, he helped the museum to form its collection. Earlier, another US President, Ulysses S Grant's statue was taken down from San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Grant led Union armies to victory in the civil war and as president fought the Ku Klux Klan. But before defeating the slave-owning Confederacy he married into a slave-owning family and briefly owned a slave himself. In an interview with the New York Times, museum president Ellen Futter said: "Over the last few weeks, our museum community has been profoundly moved by the ever-widening movement for racial justice that has emerged after the killing of George Floyd." George Floyd was an African American, who was killed in Minneapolis after a police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. His death sparked the rage of violent protests across the world. These protests were against such killings and all police brutality and systemic racism. The statue of Theodore Roosevelt has been a target of the protestors and calls for it being taken down are been made for some time now as it depicts blacks and indigenous people to be inferior. "We have watched as the attention of the world and the country has increasingly turned to statues as powerful and hurtful symbols of systemic racism," Futter said. "Simply put, the time has come to move it." New York's mayor Bill de Blasio, who is a democrat, has said that the museum had asked to remove the statue "because it explicitly depicts black and indigenous people as subjugated and racially inferior. The city supports the museum’s request. It is the right decision and the right time to remove this problematic statue." The great-grandson of the former president, Theodore Roosevelt IV is a museum trustee and he told the New York Times that he supports the decision. “The world does not need statues, relics of another age, that reflect neither the values of the person they intend to honour nor the values of equality and justice,” he said. “The composition of the Equestrian Statue does not reflect Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy. It is time to move the statue and move forward.” Ellen Futter said: “It’s very important to note that our request is based on the statue, that is the hierarchical composition that’s depicted in it." "It is not about Theodore Roosevelt who served as governor of New York before becoming the 26th president of the United States and was a pioneering conservationist," she said.

Bronze statue of Theodore Roosevelt to be taken down by American Museum of Natural History

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is a flagrant reality, it's not in doubt," he says of the crimes carried out in Leopold II's name.</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Burkina Faso's Ambassador Dieudonné W. Désiré Sougouri presented the African resolution on Friday, urging its adoption by consensus.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>The Africa group had made "concessions" in the negotiations with other countries that were "quite numerous", he added.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"We will not rest until US is fully held accountable for police violence and structural racism," he said.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

Boarded-up shops, a depressing sight for New Yorkers after looters infiltrated anti-racism marches in the city's trendiest neighborhoods, are being transformed into canvases of hope with paintbrushes wielded by a small army of artists.

Artists paint boarded-up stores to bring hope to lower Manhattan

<p>US President Donald Trump backed the police officer who was charged with the murder of a black man in Atlanta, adding that police in the country have not been "treated fairly".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Garrett Rolfe was arrested on Thursday in the killing of Rayshard Brooks, who was shot dead in Atlanta last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-atlanta-policeman-charged-with-felony-murder-of-rayshard-brooks-306662">Ex-Atlanta policeman charged with felony murder of Rayshard Brooks</a></strong></p>

<p>"I thought it was a terrible situation, but you can't resist a police officer," Trump said in an interview with Fox News.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-demands-justice-after-atlanta-police-fatally-shoot-rayshard-brooks-in-the-back-306153">Family demands justice after Atlanta police fatally shoot Rayshard Brooks in the back</a></strong></p>

<p>"I hope he gets a fair shake because police have not been treated fairly in our country."</p>

<p>"But, again, you can't resist a police officer like that. And they ended up in a very terrible disagreement and look at the way it ended. Very bad. Very bad."</p>

<p>Brooks' death came at a time when the unrest is growing in the country over the unfair treatment given to the black community by the police, which was triggered by the death of George Floyd while in custody in Minneapolis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Brooks' was allegedly killed after he was shot in the back outside a fast-food restaurant as he was running away from arrest. The matter also got escalated as the 27-year-old was kicked while he was lying on the ground bleeding.&nbsp;</p>


US President Donald Trump backed the police officer who was charged with the murder of a black man in Atlanta, adding that police in the country have not been "treated fairly".

US President Donald Trump backed the police officer who was charged with the murder of a black man in Atlanta, adding that police in the country have not been "treated fairly". Garrett Rolfe was arrested on Thursday in the killing of Rayshard Brooks, who was shot dead in Atlanta last week. Also read | Ex-Atlanta policeman charged with felony murder of Rayshard Brooks "I thought it was a terrible situation, but you can't resist a police officer," Trump said in an interview with Fox News. Also read | Family demands justice after Atlanta police fatally shoot Rayshard Brooks in the back "I hope he gets a fair shake because police have not been treated fairly in our country." "But, again, you can't resist a police officer like that. And they ended up in a very terrible disagreement and look at the way it ended. Very bad. Very bad." Brooks' death came at a time when the unrest is growing in the country over the unfair treatment given to the black community by the police, which was triggered by the death of George Floyd while in custody in Minneapolis. Brooks' was allegedly killed after he was shot in the back outside a fast-food restaurant as he was running away from arrest. The matter also got escalated as the 27-year-old was kicked while he was lying on the ground bleeding.

Atlanta police shooting: Donald Trump defends officer who shot victim

<p>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.</p>

<p>Garrett Rolfe, who has already been fired, faces 11 charges related to Rayshard Brooks' death. If convicted, he could face the death penalty.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<ul data-layout="list-hierarchical-xs">
</ul>

<p>The other officer at the scene, Devin Brosnan, will testify as a witness in the case, officials said.</p>

<p><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" /><br />
<em>Garrett Rolfe (left) and Officer Devin Brosnan</em></p>

<p>The case comes amid US protests over police killings of black Americans.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>Lawmakers in Washington are currently debating new police reform laws.</p>

<p>Brosnan, who has already been placed on administrative leave, will be charged with assault for standing on&nbsp;Brooks' shoulder as he lay dying.</p>

<p>Officials said this was the ninth time that an Atlanta police officer had been prosecuted for homicide.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Another demonstration was taking place Wednesday at the Wendy's where Brooks was shot, with dozens of protesters gathered and some blocking the road.</p>

<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

Brussels added to its large collection of murals on Thursday (June 18) with a newly commissioned work in memory of African-American George Floyd, whose killing by police has sparked global protests against racism and police violence.

Brussels adds George Floyd memorial to large mural collection

<p>British foreign minister thinks "taking the knee" comes from Game of Thrones.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>He also feels that the action is&nbsp;a symbol of subjugation and subordination.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/black-lives-matter-english-premier-league-players-take-knee-in-solidarity-306656"><strong>Also read|&nbsp;Black Lives Matter: English Premier League players take knee in solidarity</strong></a></p>

<p>In Game of Thrones, the phrase "bending the knee" is used when someone pledges their support to a monarch or lord.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>He further added, "I take the knee for two people, the queen and the missus when I asked her to marry me."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Reuters)</em></p>


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

<p>US President Donald Trump initiated police reforms with an executive order in the wake of the George Floyd's killing by a Minneapolis police officer but in a move which still left the door open for debate the proposed reform said chokeholds would end “except if the officer’s life is at risk.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-signs-order-on-police-reform-after-weeks-of-protests-about-racial-injustice-306372">Also Read:&nbsp;Trump signs order on police reform after weeks of protests about racial injustice</a></p>

<p>Trump said the new order "a tremendous step toward safe, beautiful and elegant justice", however, Democratic speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi slammed the order, saying: "The president's weak executive order falls sadly and seriously short of what is required to combat the epidemic of racial injustice and police brutality."</p>

<p>People on Twitter slammed Trump's move as well:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Trump is entirely taking the side of police. He's not even paying lip service to the issues that have animated protests across the country. <a href="https://t.co/xael9qs0xc">pic.twitter.com/xael9qs0xc</a></p>
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1272929535089090567?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So the EO "bans chokeholds" except when the police want to use chokeholds?</p>
— Rick Wilson (@TheRickWilson) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRickWilson/status/1272961388252729344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"During this moment of national anguish, we must insist on bold change, not meekly surrender to the bare minimum," Pelosi added.</p>

<p>Under the order, the government requires police departments to ban chokeholds and allows the creation of a database for police officers involved in misconduct.</p>

<p>"We have to break old patterns of failure," Trump said while signing the order at the White House Rose Garden. "We are one nation. We grieve together and we heal together," the US president said, while adding, "Americans know the truth: without police, there is chaos."</p>

<p>After George Floyd's killing tensions flared again after the death in Atlanta, Georgia, of African-American Rayshard Brooks who police said was shot in the back as he ran from officers.</p>

<p>George Floyd's death on May 25 by a Minneapolis cop had triggered waves of protest in the United States with several protesters calling for defunding of police amid large scale police reforms.</p>


US President Donald Trump initiated police reforms with an executive order in the wake of the George Floyd's killing by a Minneapolis police officer but in a move which still left the door open for debate the proposed reform said chokeholds would end “except if the officer’s life is at risk.

US President Donald Trump initiated police reforms with an executive order in the wake of the George Floyd's killing by a Minneapolis police officer but in a move which still left the door open for debate the proposed reform said chokeholds would end “except if the officer’s life is at risk.” Also Read: Trump signs order on police reform after weeks of protests about racial injustice Trump said the new order "a tremendous step toward safe, beautiful and elegant justice", however, Democratic speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi slammed the order, saying: "The president's weak executive order falls sadly and seriously short of what is required to combat the epidemic of racial injustice and police brutality." People on Twitter slammed Trump's move as well: Trump is entirely taking the side of police. He's not even paying lip service to the issues that have animated protests across the country. pic.twitter.com/xael9qs0xc — Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) June 16, 2020 × So the EO "bans chokeholds" except when the police want to use chokeholds? — Rick Wilson (@TheRickWilson) June 16, 2020 × "During this moment of national anguish, we must insist on bold change, not meekly surrender to the bare minimum," Pelosi added. Under the order, the government requires police departments to ban chokeholds and allows the creation of a database for police officers involved in misconduct. "We have to break old patterns of failure," Trump said while signing the order at the White House Rose Garden. "We are one nation. We grieve together and we heal together," the US president said, while adding, "Americans know the truth: without police, there is chaos." After George Floyd's killing tensions flared again after the death in Atlanta, Georgia, of African-American Rayshard Brooks who police said was shot in the back as he ran from officers. George Floyd's death on May 25 by a Minneapolis cop had triggered waves of protest in the United States with several protesters calling for defunding of police amid large scale police reforms.

Trump's police reforms: Row over choke holds ignites debate

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<p>Facebook on Tuesday removed almost 900 accounts associated with the far-right Proud Boys and American Guard, including those belonging to Proud Boys supporters who marched into a protest zone in Seattle Monday and confronted anti-racist demonstrators.</p>

<p>Facebook told Reuters the takedowns of more than 500 Facebook accounts and more than 300 Instagram accounts followed a smaller round of suspensions two weeks ago.</p>

<p>"We initially removed a set of accounts for both organizations on May 30 when we saw that both organizations started posting content tied to the ongoing protests," said a Facebook spokeswoman who asked not to be identified. "We were continuing the work to map out the full network."</p>

<p>Facebook had previously banned the groups for promoting hate, but individual members continued to post images with weapons and urge others to attend protests that followed the Minneapolis killing of George Floyd in police custody.</p>

<p>Facebook is under heightened scrutiny as provocateurs use it to coordinate and recruit. It has also acted to make it harder to find groups in the so-called Boogaloo movement.</p>

<p>Boogaloo adherents believe a new civil war is looming and are often heavily armed. Some ally with right-wing militias and have sought to capitalize on the protests by instigating violence they hope will escalate into a broader conflict.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, two adherents were charged in connection with the murder of a security guard on duty at a federal building during a protest in Oakland.</p>

<p>According to an affidavit supporting the criminal complaint, suspects Steven Carrillo and Robert Alvin Justus Jr. belonged to the same unidentified Facebook group and discussed attacking federal authorities on May 28.</p>

<p>"It's a great opportunity to target the specialty soup bois," Carrillo posted, in a reference the FBI said was shorthand for three-letter agencies.</p>

<p>The guard was killed the following night. After a later carjacking, the FBI said, Carrillo wrote "Boog" in his own blood on the vehicle.</p>


Facebook on Tuesday removed almost 900 accounts associated with the far-right Proud Boys and American Guard, including those belonging to Proud Boys supporters who marched into a protest zone in Seattle Monday and confronted anti-racist demonstrators.

Facebook on Tuesday removed almost 900 accounts associated with the far-right Proud Boys and American Guard, including those belonging to Proud Boys supporters who marched into a protest zone in Seattle Monday and confronted anti-racist demonstrators. Facebook told Reuters the takedowns of more than 500 Facebook accounts and more than 300 Instagram accounts followed a smaller round of suspensions two weeks ago. "We initially removed a set of accounts for both organizations on May 30 when we saw that both organizations started posting content tied to the ongoing protests," said a Facebook spokeswoman who asked not to be identified. "We were continuing the work to map out the full network." Facebook had previously banned the groups for promoting hate, but individual members continued to post images with weapons and urge others to attend protests that followed the Minneapolis killing of George Floyd in police custody. Facebook is under heightened scrutiny as provocateurs use it to coordinate and recruit. It has also acted to make it harder to find groups in the so-called Boogaloo movement. Boogaloo adherents believe a new civil war is looming and are often heavily armed. Some ally with right-wing militias and have sought to capitalize on the protests by instigating violence they hope will escalate into a broader conflict. On Tuesday, two adherents were charged in connection with the murder of a security guard on duty at a federal building during a protest in Oakland. According to an affidavit supporting the criminal complaint, suspects Steven Carrillo and Robert Alvin Justus Jr. belonged to the same unidentified Facebook group and discussed attacking federal authorities on May 28. "It's a great opportunity to target the specialty soup bois," Carrillo posted, in a reference the FBI said was shorthand for three-letter agencies. The guard was killed the following night. After a later carjacking, the FBI said, Carrillo wrote "Boog" in his own blood on the vehicle.

Facebook removes hundreds more accounts as right-wing violence spreads

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>He had not aggravated the officers and was instead protesting peacefully.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>On Tuesday, his attorney said that he had a skull fracture and still had not recovered fully.&nbsp;</p>

<p><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" /><br />
<em>Gugino was violently pushed by Buffalo cops earlier this month while peacefully protesting</em></p>

<p>'I am not at liberty to elaborate at this time other than to confirm that his skull was fractured.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>'While he is not able to walk yet, we were able to have a short conversation before he became too tired.</p>

<p><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" /><br />
<em>The 75-year-old lay on the ground, bleeding from the head, but no cop stopped to help him</em></p>

<p>'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.</p>

<p>The video of him being hurt emerged at the height of nationwide protests over police brutality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>The president was widely criticized for his remarks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>'If there was ever, if he ever feels a moment of decency, he should apologize for that tweet.'&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Gugino's lawyer previously said he had no connection to Antifa.</p>


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

<p>The United States is currently witnessing two crises: COVID-19, and stressful race relations which have spurred protests across the country.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Japan’s richest man feels this will impact the global perception of the United States.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>US President Donald Trump, facing criticism that his policies and inflammatory rhetoric have aggravated a racial divide in the United States, signed an order on Tuesday that he said would reform police practices even as he pressed for "law and order" nationwide.</p>

<p>After weeks of protests against racism and policy brutality prompted by the death of George Floyd, a black man killed on May 25 in police custody in Minneapolis, Trump sought to offer a policy response to rising concerns about racial injustice going into the Nov. 3 election, in which he is seeking a second term.</p>

<p>Trump, a Republican, opened his remarks by expressing sympathy to the families of victims of police violence, pledging to fight for justice and promising them their loved ones will not have died in vain. But he quickly pivoted to a defense of law enforcement officers and a threat of penalties to looters.</p>

<p>"Americans want law and order, they demand law and order," Trump said at a ceremony at the White House, reiterating a call that has angered protesters who have poured onto streets from New York to Los Angeles.</p>

<p>"Americans know the truth: Without police there is chaos, without law there is anarchy, and without safety there is catastrophe," he said.</p>

<p>In his public comments and on Twitter, Trump has called for crackdowns on protesters and emphasized a forceful and militarized response to the social unrest sparked by the death of Floyd and others. Despite issuing a call for unity, he used his Rose Garden address on Tuesday to criticize former President Barack Obama, the first black U.S. president, for his record on police reforms. Opinion polls show widespread concerns among Americans about police brutality.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/george-floyd-protests-spread-far-and-wide-at-least-25-us-cities-impose-curfew-302194">Also read:&nbsp;George Floyd protests spread far and wide; at least 25 US cities impose curfew</a></p>

<p>Tuesday's order encourages police departments to employ the latest standards for use of force, improve information sharing so that officers with poor records are not hired without their backgrounds being known, and add social workers to law enforcement responses to non-violent cases involving drug addiction and homelessness, officials said.</p>

<p>Trump's proposal would steer federal money toward police departments that get certification by outside bodies and would ban chokeholds unless an officer's life was in danger. It also would encourage them to use less-lethal weapons such as stun guns.</p>

<p>Civil-rights groups and top Democrats, including former Vice President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, said the order was insufficient.</p>

<p>Trump reiterated that he opposes calls to "defund the police" by reimagining or dismantling police departments. Leading Democrats, including Biden, have not embraced such calls, but Republicans have jumped on the issue.</p>

<p>The Democratic-led House of Representatives is expected to vote later this month on sweeping legislation put forward by the Congressional Black Caucus to rein in police misconduct.</p>

<p>Senate Republicans are expected to unveil their own legislation on Wednesday that concentrates more on data collection than on policy changes in areas involving lethal force. Trump urged Congress to act.</p>

<p>Democrats want to allow victims of misconduct and their families to sue police. Republicans are pushing to reduce job protections for members of law enforcement unions.</p>

<p>Trump's decision to ban chokeholds appears similar to the ban included in the Democratic legislation.</p>

<p>Republican lawmakers are divided on that issue.</p>

<p>Inimai Chettiar of the Justice Action Network said the use of grant money to influence police department policies could be an effective way to get results, but she noted that Trump's Justice Department has resisted other reform efforts.</p>

<p>"I have a lot of skepticism in terms of how rigorously this is going to be implemented," she said. Other civil-rights groups said Trump's order did not go far enough.</p>


US President Donald Trump, facing criticism that his policies and inflammatory rhetoric have aggravated a racial divide in the United States, signed an order on Tuesday that he said would reform police practices even as he pressed for "law and order" nationwide.

US President Donald Trump, facing criticism that his policies and inflammatory rhetoric have aggravated a racial divide in the United States, signed an order on Tuesday that he said would reform police practices even as he pressed for "law and order" nationwide. After weeks of protests against racism and policy brutality prompted by the death of George Floyd, a black man killed on May 25 in police custody in Minneapolis, Trump sought to offer a policy response to rising concerns about racial injustice going into the Nov. 3 election, in which he is seeking a second term. Trump, a Republican, opened his remarks by expressing sympathy to the families of victims of police violence, pledging to fight for justice and promising them their loved ones will not have died in vain. But he quickly pivoted to a defense of law enforcement officers and a threat of penalties to looters. "Americans want law and order, they demand law and order," Trump said at a ceremony at the White House, reiterating a call that has angered protesters who have poured onto streets from New York to Los Angeles. "Americans know the truth: Without police there is chaos, without law there is anarchy, and without safety there is catastrophe," he said. In his public comments and on Twitter, Trump has called for crackdowns on protesters and emphasized a forceful and militarized response to the social unrest sparked by the death of Floyd and others. Despite issuing a call for unity, he used his Rose Garden address on Tuesday to criticize former President Barack Obama, the first black U.S. president, for his record on police reforms. Opinion polls show widespread concerns among Americans about police brutality. Also read: George Floyd protests spread far and wide; at least 25 US cities impose curfew Tuesday's order encourages police departments to employ the latest standards for use of force, improve information sharing so that officers with poor records are not hired without their backgrounds being known, and add social workers to law enforcement responses to non-violent cases involving drug addiction and homelessness, officials said. Trump's proposal would steer federal money toward police departments that get certification by outside bodies and would ban chokeholds unless an officer's life was in danger. It also would encourage them to use less-lethal weapons such as stun guns. Civil-rights groups and top Democrats, including former Vice President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, said the order was insufficient. Trump reiterated that he opposes calls to "defund the police" by reimagining or dismantling police departments. Leading Democrats, including Biden, have not embraced such calls, but Republicans have jumped on the issue. The Democratic-led House of Representatives is expected to vote later this month on sweeping legislation put forward by the Congressional Black Caucus to rein in police misconduct. Senate Republicans are expected to unveil their own legislation on Wednesday that concentrates more on data collection than on policy changes in areas involving lethal force. Trump urged Congress to act. Democrats want to allow victims of misconduct and their families to sue police. Republicans are pushing to reduce job protections for members of law enforcement unions. Trump's decision to ban chokeholds appears similar to the ban included in the Democratic legislation. Republican lawmakers are divided on that issue. Inimai Chettiar of the Justice Action Network said the use of grant money to influence police department policies could be an effective way to get results, but she noted that Trump's Justice Department has resisted other reform efforts. "I have a lot of skepticism in terms of how rigorously this is going to be implemented," she said. Other civil-rights groups said Trump's order did not go far enough.

Trump signs order on police reform after weeks of protests about racial injustice

<p>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.<br />
<br />
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;<br />
<br />
The previous rate had been in force since March.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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><br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
On Wednesday, the rate on the parallel market stood at around 2,600 to 2,800 pounds to the dollar, traders told AFP.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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><br />
<br />
"It is trying to encourage people to use the official channel instead of the black market," he said.<br />
<br />
But the pound would probably continue its slide, punctuated by short periods of appreciation, he said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
The Damascus government has long blamed the country's economic crisis on international sanctions.<br />
<br />
Last week, President Bashar al-Assad sacked his prime minister of four years after criticism of the government's handling of the crisis.<br />
<br />
Before the conflict, the exchange rate stood at 47 Syrian pounds to the dollar.</p>


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

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<p>The New York Police Department is disbanding its aggressive anti-crime unit as part of a nationwide push for policing reforms following the killing of George Floyd.</p>

<p>In a major redeployment, the country's largest police force will reassign some 600 plainclothes officers in the anti-crime unit, the target of numerous complaints, to other duties, effective immediately, Commissioner Dermot Shea said on Monday.</p>

<p>"Make no mistake, this is a seismic shift in the culture of how the NYPD polices this great city," Shea told a news briefing. "It will be felt immediately throughout the five district attorney's offices, it will be felt immediately in the communities that we protect."</p>

<p>Like most US cities, New York has had daily protests demanding racial justice since the May 25 killing of Floyd, a black man, by a white Minneapolis officer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mass reassignment follows a number of policing overhaul bills signed last week by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move is&nbsp;designed at modernising&nbsp;the NYPD with a uniformed staff of more than 36,000, and build trust amid heightened racial tension, Shea said.</p>

<p>By ending the anti-crime unit, which proactively pursues street criminals, Shea said he hopes to regain support in neighbourhoods alienated by the unit's rough tactics, which have drawn a large share of complaints.</p>

<p>Shea stressed he was not faulting the officers of the unit who he said had been doing what was asked of them. The move was closing one of the last chapters of the "stop-and-frisk" era that disproportionately targeted non-white people for random searches, he said.</p>

<p>"We can do it with brains, we can do it with guile, we can move away from brute force," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;</em></p>


The New York Police Department is disbanding its aggressive anti-crime unit as part of a nationwide push for policing reforms following the killing of George Floyd.

The New York Police Department is disbanding its aggressive anti-crime unit as part of a nationwide push for policing reforms following the killing of George Floyd. In a major redeployment, the country's largest police force will reassign some 600 plainclothes officers in the anti-crime unit, the target of numerous complaints, to other duties, effective immediately, Commissioner Dermot Shea said on Monday. "Make no mistake, this is a seismic shift in the culture of how the NYPD polices this great city," Shea told a news briefing. "It will be felt immediately throughout the five district attorney's offices, it will be felt immediately in the communities that we protect." Like most US cities, New York has had daily protests demanding racial justice since the May 25 killing of Floyd, a black man, by a white Minneapolis officer. The mass reassignment follows a number of policing overhaul bills signed last week by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. The move is designed at modernising the NYPD with a uniformed staff of more than 36,000, and build trust amid heightened racial tension, Shea said. By ending the anti-crime unit, which proactively pursues street criminals, Shea said he hopes to regain support in neighbourhoods alienated by the unit's rough tactics, which have drawn a large share of complaints. Shea stressed he was not faulting the officers of the unit who he said had been doing what was asked of them. The move was closing one of the last chapters of the "stop-and-frisk" era that disproportionately targeted non-white people for random searches, he said. "We can do it with brains, we can do it with guile, we can move away from brute force," he said. (With inputs from Reuters)

New York City police disbands anti-crime unit amid pressure to reform

<p>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.</p>

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<p>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.</p>

<p>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</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>In Chicago, protesters organised the drag march for a change, with drag queens speaking in support of the black lives matter movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;Floyd's death was not an isolated incident the united states has been accused of systemic racism and unjustified use of force.</p>

<p>Another death over the weekend underlined these allegations.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>One lawyer points at qualified immunity behind these police shootouts.</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>Floyd's death has also sparked the call for defunding the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>


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

<p>Actor and WWE star Dave Bautista has paid a unique tribute to George Floyd. The actor took to Instagram on Saturday to reveal two new social justice-inspired tattoos, supporting the protests that have erupted in America following Floyd's death.<br />
<br />
The ink on his left hand had the opening words to the Preamble of the United States Constitution, "We the people," while Bautista had "I can't breathe," referencing Floyd's last words before his death, written on his right hand.<br />
<br />
"Brothers and sisters! Be relentless in the pursuit of justice," he captioned the black-and-white photo. "Be unintimidated in the fight against oppression. We’re here together to remind each other what we’re fighting for."<br />
<br />
Bautista, 51, continued, "I want to forget but I won’t let myself. There’s too much at stake. Peace to everyone fighting for a dream. #OneNation #OneRace #DreamChasers #icantbreathe #WeThePeople."</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CBW4a17FTpn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Brothers and sisters! Be relentless in the pursuit of justice. Be unintimidated in the fight against oppression. We’re here together to remind each other what we’re fighting for. I want to forget but I won’t let myself. There’s too much at stake. Peace to everyone fighting for a dream. #OneNation #OneRace #DreamChasers #icantbreathe #WeThePeople</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/davebautista/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Super Duper David Bautista</a> (@davebautista) on <time datetime="2020-06-13T01:53:09+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jun 12, 2020 at 6:53pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>The 'Guardians Of The Galaxy' star has been very vocal about social justice reform in the past.<br />
<br />
"Waking into this week like my hometown painted a giant a-- beacon of hope and change on the streets of city blocks pointing right at the heart of the country," he wrote in an Instagram post last week of Washington DC, which had 'Black Lives Matter' painted in giant yellow letters down the city’s 16th Street near the White House.<br />
<br />
"Like deal with it! Like we the people demand change. Like we’re all together in this and we will not be doing this again in 10 years. We’re too connected. We’re too united. And nobody is looking the other way any more because all lives can’t matter until #blacklivesmatter ... Peace to everyone who fought their hearts out and will continue to fight for a dream. #onenation #onerace #DreamChasers," he further added.<br />
<br />
Bautista joins several other prominent celebrities from film and music industry in condemning police atrocities against the African-American community.</p>


Actor and WWE star Dave Bautista has paid a unique tribute to George Floyd. The actor took to Instagram on Saturday to reveal two new social justice-inspired tattoos, supporting the protests that have erupted in America following Floyd's death.

Actor and WWE star Dave Bautista has paid a unique tribute to George Floyd. The actor took to Instagram on Saturday to reveal two new social justice-inspired tattoos, supporting the protests that have erupted in America following Floyd's death. The ink on his left hand had the opening words to the Preamble of the United States Constitution, "We the people," while Bautista had "I can't breathe," referencing Floyd's last words before his death, written on his right hand. "Brothers and sisters! Be relentless in the pursuit of justice," he captioned the black-and-white photo. "Be unintimidated in the fight against oppression. We’re here together to remind each other what we’re fighting for." Bautista, 51, continued, "I want to forget but I won’t let myself. There’s too much at stake. Peace to everyone fighting for a dream. #OneNation #OneRace #DreamChasers #icantbreathe #WeThePeople." View this post on Instagram Brothers and sisters! Be relentless in the pursuit of justice. Be unintimidated in the fight against oppression. We’re here together to remind each other what we’re fighting for. I want to forget but I won’t let myself. There’s too much at stake. Peace to everyone fighting for a dream. #OneNation #OneRace #DreamChasers #icantbreathe #WeThePeople A post shared by Super Duper David Bautista (@davebautista) on Jun 12, 2020 at 6:53pm PDT × The 'Guardians Of The Galaxy' star has been very vocal about social justice reform in the past. "Waking into this week like my hometown painted a giant a-- beacon of hope and change on the streets of city blocks pointing right at the heart of the country," he wrote in an Instagram post last week of Washington DC, which had 'Black Lives Matter' painted in giant yellow letters down the city’s 16th Street near the White House. "Like deal with it! Like we the people demand change. Like we’re all together in this and we will not be doing this again in 10 years. We’re too connected. We’re too united. And nobody is looking the other way any more because all lives can’t matter until #blacklivesmatter ... Peace to everyone who fought their hearts out and will continue to fight for a dream. #onenation #onerace #DreamChasers," he further added. Bautista joins several other prominent celebrities from film and music industry in condemning police atrocities against the African-American community.

Actor and WWE star Dave Bautista flaunts his 'I can't breathe' and 'We the people' tattoos on social media

New York police dept disbands anti-crime unit amid pressure to reform

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p><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></p>

<p>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!"</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p><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></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Bottoms told a media briefing that she was heartbroken and angry over Brooks' death.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>She said she could not wait for an advisory council to come up with police reform recommendations.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>Vince Champion, southeast regional director for the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, urged against a rush to judgment.</p>

<p>"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."</p>

<p>President Donald Trump told reporters the shooting in Atlanta was "a terrible situation" and "very disturbing".</p>


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

Senegalese artists are taking a stand against racism and police brutality after George Floyd died in police custody in the United States.

Senegal artists stand in support of BLM protests

<p>The death of Rayshard Brooks has reignited protests in Atlanta after days of worldwide demonstrations against racism and police brutality prompted by the death of George Floyd, an African American, in Minneapolis police custody on May 25.</p>

<p>Brooks was killed by a white police officer in Atlanta on Friday.</p>

<p>An autopsy conducted on Sunday showed that Brooks, 27, died from blood loss and organ injuries caused by two gunshot wounds, an investigator for the medical examiner said in a statement. The manner of his death was homicide, the statement added.</p>

<p>Brooks' fatal encounter with police came after an employee of a Wendy's restaurant in Atlanta phoned authorities to say that someone had fallen asleep in his car in the restaurant's drive-through lane.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-burn-down-wendys-in-atlanta-after-police-shooting-305850">Also read:&nbsp;Protesters burn down Wendy's in Atlanta after police shooting</a></p>

<p>Caught on the officer's body camera and a surveillance camera, the encounter seemed friendly at first, as Brooks cooperated with a sobriety test and talked about his daughter's birthday.</p>

<p>"I watched the interaction with Mr. Brooks and it broke my heart," Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms said on CNN. "This was not confrontational. This was a guy that you were rooting for."</p>

<p>But when an officer moved to arrest him, Brooks struggled with him and another officer at the scene before breaking free and running across the parking lot with what appears to be a police Taser in his hand, a bystander's video showed.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/wendys-in-atlanta-burned-down-by-protestors-after-black-man-was-slain-by-police-305740">Also read:&nbsp;Wendy's in Atlanta burned down by protestors after black man was slain by police</a></p>

<p>A video from the restaurant’s cameras shows Brooks turning as he runs and possibly aiming the Taser at the pursuing officers before one of them fires his gun and Brooks falls.</p>

<p>Atlanta's police chief, Erika Shields, resigned over the shooting. The officer suspected of killing Brooks was fired, and the other officer involved in the incident, also white, was put on administrative leave.</p>

<p>As demonstrators in Atlanta took to the streets and chanted for the officers in Brooks' case to be criminally charged, at one point late on Saturday blocking traffic on a nearby interstate highway, the Wendy's restaurant went up in flames.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;</em></p>


The death of Rayshard Brooks has reignited protests in Atlanta after days of worldwide demonstrations against racism and police brutality prompted by the death of George Floyd, an African American, in Minneapolis police custody on May 25.

The death of Rayshard Brooks has reignited protests in Atlanta after days of worldwide demonstrations against racism and police brutality prompted by the death of George Floyd, an African American, in Minneapolis police custody on May 25. Brooks was killed by a white police officer in Atlanta on Friday. An autopsy conducted on Sunday showed that Brooks, 27, died from blood loss and organ injuries caused by two gunshot wounds, an investigator for the medical examiner said in a statement. The manner of his death was homicide, the statement added. Brooks' fatal encounter with police came after an employee of a Wendy's restaurant in Atlanta phoned authorities to say that someone had fallen asleep in his car in the restaurant's drive-through lane. Also read: Protesters burn down Wendy's in Atlanta after police shooting Caught on the officer's body camera and a surveillance camera, the encounter seemed friendly at first, as Brooks cooperated with a sobriety test and talked about his daughter's birthday. "I watched the interaction with Mr. Brooks and it broke my heart," Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms said on CNN. "This was not confrontational. This was a guy that you were rooting for." But when an officer moved to arrest him, Brooks struggled with him and another officer at the scene before breaking free and running across the parking lot with what appears to be a police Taser in his hand, a bystander's video showed. Also read: Wendy's in Atlanta burned down by protestors after black man was slain by police A video from the restaurant’s cameras shows Brooks turning as he runs and possibly aiming the Taser at the pursuing officers before one of them fires his gun and Brooks falls. Atlanta's police chief, Erika Shields, resigned over the shooting. The officer suspected of killing Brooks was fired, and the other officer involved in the incident, also white, was put on administrative leave. As demonstrators in Atlanta took to the streets and chanted for the officers in Brooks' case to be criminally charged, at one point late on Saturday blocking traffic on a nearby interstate highway, the Wendy's restaurant went up in flames. (With inputs from Reuters)

Death of yet another black man in Atlanta reignites protests across US

<p>Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Brazilian star put the Spanish giants 3-0 up in just 37 minutes on Sunday evening.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Protests broke out after George Floyd's death giving momentum to the Black Lives Matter movement. Many football clubs and players have been seen taking the knee against police injustice and racial inequality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Floyd died in Minneapolis after having a knee pressed into his neck for around nine minutes while being in police custody last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Players like Jadon Sancho, Marcus Thuram and Achraf Hakimi were seen taking the knee to show solidarity to the movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Premier League, teams like Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal have taken the knee during their whole-squad training sessions.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlackLivesMatter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlackLivesMatter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayersTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayersTogether</a> <a href="https://t.co/aFXNw9eIVF">pic.twitter.com/aFXNw9eIVF</a></p>
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<p>Premier League released a statement, which read: "We, the Players, stand together with the singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for All, regardless of their colour or creed.</p>

<p>"This symbol is a sign of unity from all Players, all Staff, all Clubs, all Match Officials and the Premier League #blacklivesmatter #playerstogether." &nbsp;</p>


Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar. The Brazilian star put the Spanish giants 3-0 up in just 37 minutes on Sunday evening.

Real Madrid defender Marcelo showed his support to the Black Lives Matter campaign by taking a knee after he scored a goal for his club against Eibar. The Brazilian star put the Spanish giants 3-0 up in just 37 minutes on Sunday evening. Protests broke out after George Floyd's death giving momentum to the Black Lives Matter movement. Many football clubs and players have been seen taking the knee against police injustice and racial inequality. Floyd died in Minneapolis after having a knee pressed into his neck for around nine minutes while being in police custody last month. Players like Jadon Sancho, Marcus Thuram and Achraf Hakimi were seen taking the knee to show solidarity to the movement. In the Premier League, teams like Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal have taken the knee during their whole-squad training sessions. #BlackLivesMatter #PlayersTogether pic.twitter.com/aFXNw9eIVF — Jordan Henderson (@JHenderson) June 12, 2020 × Premier League released a statement, which read: "We, the Players, stand together with the singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for All, regardless of their colour or creed. "This symbol is a sign of unity from all Players, all Staff, all Clubs, all Match Officials and the Premier League #blacklivesmatter #playerstogether."

Real Madrid star Marcelo takes a knee to show solidarity to Black Lives Matter campaign

About 3,500 people joined a Black Lives Matter protest in Tokyo on Sunday (June 14), according to event organisers, marking a second weekend of massive anti-racism and anti-police brutality protests globally triggered by the death of George Floyd in the United States.

Thousands of protesters brave the rain to join Japan Black Lives Matter march

<p>Barbra Streisand gave a sweet surprise to George Floyd’s daughter Gianna as she gifted her Disney stocks as a gift.</p>

<p>Gianna, who has been in the news ever since her father was killed mercilessly because of racial injustice, shared a post on Instagram. She thanked the Hollywood star for a gift package that included her new stock portfolio as well as a copy of two Streisand albums including ‘My Name is Barbra’ from 1965 and ‘Color Me Barbra’ from 1966.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CBYSZ4pnqeP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Thank You @barbrastreisand for my package, I am now a Disney Stockholder thanks to you 🥰🥰🥰</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/giannapinkfloyd_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> GIGI FLOYD</a> (@giannapinkfloyd_) on <time datetime="2020-06-13T14:59:27+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jun 13, 2020 at 7:59am PDT</time></p>
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<p>Gianna Floyd is a recent joiness of Instagram. She shares posts remembering her father and thanking people from all over the world who help create a more just world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She recently also posted a picture that read: “Stop Killing Our Fathers.”</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CBbg-9TnKZR/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Please Stop Killing Our Fathers #justiceforgeorgefloyd #justiceforrayshardbrooks</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/giannapinkfloyd_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> GIGI FLOYD</a> (@giannapinkfloyd_) on <time datetime="2020-06-14T21:04:34+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jun 14, 2020 at 2:04pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>Gianna’s Go Fund Me page has exceeded its goal of $2 million. “Thank you so much for the outpouring of love and support,” Gianna and her mother Roxie Washington stated on the page. They also launched a foundation where people can send cards, pictures or gifts.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/barbra-streisand-calls-trump-dangerous-to-our-health-at-joe-bidens-fundraiser-rally-305452">Barbra Streisand calls Trump 'dangerous to our health' at Joe Biden's fundraiser rally</a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hollywood-stars-who-witnessed-police-brutality-during-blacklivesmatter-protests-303205">Hollywood stars who witnessed police brutality during #BlackLivesMatter protests</a></p>


Barbra Streisand gave a sweet surprise to George Floyd’s daughter Gianna as she gifted her Disney stocks as a gift. Gianna, who has been in the news ever since her father was killed mercilessly because of racial injustice, shared a post on Instagram.

Barbra Streisand gave a sweet surprise to George Floyd’s daughter Gianna as she gifted her Disney stocks as a gift. Gianna, who has been in the news ever since her father was killed mercilessly because of racial injustice, shared a post on Instagram. She thanked the Hollywood star for a gift package that included her new stock portfolio as well as a copy of two Streisand albums including ‘My Name is Barbra’ from 1965 and ‘Color Me Barbra’ from 1966. View this post on Instagram Thank You @barbrastreisand for my package, I am now a Disney Stockholder thanks to you 🥰🥰🥰 A post shared by GIGI FLOYD (@giannapinkfloyd_) on Jun 13, 2020 at 7:59am PDT × Gianna Floyd is a recent joiness of Instagram. She shares posts remembering her father and thanking people from all over the world who help create a more just world. She recently also posted a picture that read: “Stop Killing Our Fathers.” View this post on Instagram Please Stop Killing Our Fathers #justiceforgeorgefloyd #justiceforrayshardbrooks A post shared by GIGI FLOYD (@giannapinkfloyd_) on Jun 14, 2020 at 2:04pm PDT × Gianna’s Go Fund Me page has exceeded its goal of $2 million. “Thank you so much for the outpouring of love and support,” Gianna and her mother Roxie Washington stated on the page. They also launched a foundation where people can send cards, pictures or gifts. Barbra Streisand calls Trump 'dangerous to our health' at Joe Biden's fundraiser rally Hollywood stars who witnessed police brutality during #BlackLivesMatter protests

Barbra Streisand makes George Floyd’s daughter Disney stockholder

<p>A group of scientists have unearthed inconsistencies in the global body World Health Organization’s (WHO) study about the risks of contracting/spreading COVID-19 within a certain distance.</p>

<p>Recently, the United Kingdom announced plans to relax the two-metre physical distancing rule. Scientists warned that the study in question should not ideally be used to justify the relaxation.</p>

<p>After WHO earlier stipulated two metres as the ideal distance between two people, critics across the globe called it too cautionary a tale.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="/world/coronavirus-spreading-like-wildfire-in-africa-test-kits-needed-who-305077" hreflang="en">Coronavirus spreading like wildfire in Africa, test kits needed: WHO</a></p>

<p>The WHO research now being questioned claimed that a reduction in social distancing from two to one metres would increase increase the infection risk from 1.3 per cent to 2.6 per cent.</p>

<p>However, scientists believe the aforementioned research is short-sighted and should not be used as the blueprint to enforce distancing measures.</p>

<p>“The analysis of infection risk at 1 metre versus 2 metre should be treated with great caution,” Professor&nbsp;David Spiegelhalter, from Cambridge University told the Guardian. “I’m very suspicious of it”, Spiegelhalter added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="/world/after-saying-asymptomatic-carriers-spreading-covid-19-very-rare-who-clarifies-304664" hreflang="en">After saying asymptomatic carriers spreading COVID-19 very rare, WHO clarifies</a></p>

<p>Another researcher from Open University referred to WHO’s analysis as “inappropriate”, while adding that the research “should not be used in arguments about how much greater the infection risk is at 1-metre minimum distance as opposed to 2 metres”.</p>

<p>This brings into question the veracity of research papers published on online portals like the Lancet and New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers found that some papers are being hurriedly written and published, making the conclusions hard to process and verify.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="/world/confusion-in-the-times-of-coronavirus-who-is-a-poor-example-to-follow-304928" hreflang="en">Confusion in the times of coronavirus: WHO is a poor example to follow</a></p>

<p>The two portals mentioned above were recently forced to retract a few studies after flaws surfaced.</p>

<p>Boris Johnson recently said that the two metre distancing rule will be put under review.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)</em></p>


A group of scientists have unearthed inconsistencies in the global body World Health Organization’s (WHO) study about the risks of contracting/spreading COVID-19 within a certain distance.

A group of scientists have unearthed inconsistencies in the global body World Health Organization’s (WHO) study about the risks of contracting/spreading COVID-19 within a certain distance. Recently, the United Kingdom announced plans to relax the two-metre physical distancing rule. Scientists warned that the study in question should not ideally be used to justify the relaxation. After WHO earlier stipulated two metres as the ideal distance between two people, critics across the globe called it too cautionary a tale. Also read: Coronavirus spreading like wildfire in Africa, test kits needed: WHO The WHO research now being questioned claimed that a reduction in social distancing from two to one metres would increase increase the infection risk from 1.3 per cent to 2.6 per cent. However, scientists believe the aforementioned research is short-sighted and should not be used as the blueprint to enforce distancing measures. “The analysis of infection risk at 1 metre versus 2 metre should be treated with great caution,” Professor David Spiegelhalter, from Cambridge University told the Guardian. “I’m very suspicious of it”, Spiegelhalter added. Also read: After saying asymptomatic carriers spreading COVID-19 very rare, WHO clarifies Another researcher from Open University referred to WHO’s analysis as “inappropriate”, while adding that the research “should not be used in arguments about how much greater the infection risk is at 1-metre minimum distance as opposed to 2 metres”. This brings into question the veracity of research papers published on online portals like the Lancet and New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers found that some papers are being hurriedly written and published, making the conclusions hard to process and verify. Also read: Confusion in the times of coronavirus: WHO is a poor example to follow The two portals mentioned above were recently forced to retract a few studies after flaws surfaced. Boris Johnson recently said that the two metre distancing rule will be put under review. (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Scientists question WHO's study on relaxing social distancing norms

<p>The death of another Black man by a police officer in the United States, Rayshard Brooks, in Atlanta has triggered a fresh wave of protests in the country against police brutality and racism.</p>

<p>Brooks was shot at by an officer, who succumbed to gun shot wounds in the back.</p>

<p>The Fulton country medical examiner’s office has ruled it as homicide, while protests continue to rage for the fourth straight week in the country.</p>

<p>Brooks, 27, died from blood loss and organ injuries caused by the gunshot wounds, the autopsy revealed.</p>

<p>The statement from the medical examiner’s office referred to the manner of death as “homicide”.</p>

<h6><img alt="A burned Wendy’s restaurant is seen on the second day following the police shooting death of Rayshard Brooks in the restaurant parking lot June 14, 2020, in Atlanta, Georgia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4ac1257b-f9fb-4f2a-9220-9d5f1fab23c3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-3_20.jpg" /><br />
<em>A burned Wendy’s restaurant is seen on the second day following the police shooting death of Rayshard Brooks in the restaurant parking lot June 14, 2020, in Atlanta, Georgia | AFP</em><br />
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<p>Allegedly, Brooks was asleep in the drive through lane of a Wendy’s restaurant in Atlanta, after which an employee called the police. In the process of this, he was shot in the back, leading to his death.</p>

<p>Protests soon circled a Wendy’s store and set it on fire, the visuals of which made rounds on social media.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/video-released-of-moment-man-was-shot-by-2-cops-in-atlanta-watch-it-306020/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Earlier, George Floyd was knelt on by a police officer for almost 9 minutes which led to his death and spurred global outrage spreading as far as New Zealand and France.</p>

<p>Protesters in Atlanta were heard chanting “This is not a riot” while demanding justice for the murder.</p>

<p>The body camera footage of the police encounter with Brooks showed the conversation beginning in a friendly manner, but as officers proceeded to arrest him, there was restraint. As he fled with a taser gun, one of the officers shot him, after which he fell to the ground.</p>


The death of another Black man by a police officer in the United States, Rayshard Brooks, in Atlanta has triggered a fresh wave of protests in the country against police brutality and racism.

The death of another Black man by a police officer in the United States, Rayshard Brooks, in Atlanta has triggered a fresh wave of protests in the country against police brutality and racism. Brooks was shot at by an officer, who succumbed to gun shot wounds in the back. The Fulton country medical examiner’s office has ruled it as homicide, while protests continue to rage for the fourth straight week in the country. Brooks, 27, died from blood loss and organ injuries caused by the gunshot wounds, the autopsy revealed. The statement from the medical examiner’s office referred to the manner of death as “homicide”. A burned Wendy’s restaurant is seen on the second day following the police shooting death of Rayshard Brooks in the restaurant parking lot June 14, 2020, in Atlanta, Georgia | AFP Allegedly, Brooks was asleep in the drive through lane of a Wendy’s restaurant in Atlanta, after which an employee called the police. In the process of this, he was shot in the back, leading to his death. Protests soon circled a Wendy’s store and set it on fire, the visuals of which made rounds on social media. Earlier, George Floyd was knelt on by a police officer for almost 9 minutes which led to his death and spurred global outrage spreading as far as New Zealand and France. Protesters in Atlanta were heard chanting “This is not a riot” while demanding justice for the murder. The body camera footage of the police encounter with Brooks showed the conversation beginning in a friendly manner, but as officers proceeded to arrest him, there was restraint. As he fled with a taser gun, one of the officers shot him, after which he fell to the ground.

Brooks shooting in Atlanta was 'homicide', claims medical examiner

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