Former US President Barack Obama welcomed what he described as “a change of mindset” among American demonstrators against racism and police violence, considering that it might lead to reforms at the national level.
Obama said during a video conference with activists yesterday: “It is very important for us to take this opportunity at the level of society and the state, and to use that to influence in the end”, referring to the thousands of people who took to the streets to denounce police brutality, racism and social inequality .
He added: “A change of mindset and a greater awareness that we can do something better … are under way. The current protests paint a” more representative picture of America than the civil rights movements that occurred in the 1960s. “
Obama referred to the youth in particular who were present, saying: “I want you to know that you are important, I want you to know that your life is important, and your dreams are important.”
He also urged state and local authorities to review their policy on the use of force, as well as invite local elected officials to review their policies on the use of force with members of their community and to commit to accountability for the promised reforms.
Most parts of the country are witnessing protests punctuated by ongoing riots and clashes between protesters and police, following the accident of young brown skinny George Floyd, who died after being harshly treated by police, on May 25.
Source: Agencies
