Content warning: Tragic police violence against a young Black man is the subject of this email.
John --
Earlier this week, on March 9th, Ryan Gainer was tragically taken from his family when he was senselessly murdered by a San Bernardino County sheriff's deputy. Ryan, a beloved 15-year-old Black boy with a passion for running and the dream to be an engineer.
Before Ryan's life was taken, he was in distress due to his autism, yelling and disrupting property at the residence. However, by the time deputies arrived, the situation had calmed, with Ryan even apologizing to his family. Tragically, as Ryan approached the deputies holding a gardening tool, he was murdered.
The fact that the crime was captured on body cam doesn't make it any less outrageous. Yet, despite this evidence, we're still left in the dark, waiting for the full body cam footage that would show the entire truth. It's infuriating to witness the systematic oppression of Black people, driven by racist systems, which not only withhold crucial footage but also deny any chance for a thorough investigation. It's downright NONSENSE.
As we mourn yet another senseless murder of a Black life, we remain steadfast in our goal of true liberation and abolition. If Black children can't live without fear of being murdered by the police, then truly, none of us have freedom.
Ryan Gainer was a human being who deserved every opportunity to live. Please call the San Bernardino Sheriff's department now at (909-890-4904) and demand the release of all information connected to this investigation, including body cam footage, 911 calls, and the TERMINATION of ALL deputies involved.
As we grieve another heartbreaking loss of a Black life, we offer our solidarity and gratitude to the family of Ryan, and we recommit ourselves to abolishing all aspects of white supremacy and systemic racism – the only true path to Black freedom.
Ryan's story resonates with every Black child worldwide. We will continue to honor you and fight for you. Wherever you are as you read this, please call the San Bernardino Sheriff's Department now at (909-890-4904) and demand the release of all information connected to this investigation, including body cam footage, 911 calls, and the TERMINATION of ALL deputies involved.
Rest in power, Ryan.
In love and solidarity,
Black Lives Matter
