Outrage over the deaths of African Americans at the hands of police has triggered protests in Australia’s capital cities.
The Black Lives Matter movement was created in 2012 following the acquittal of George Zimmerman over the shooting death of unarmed teenager Trayvon Martin in the United States.
The recent deaths of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling to police violence have since reinvigorated the movement, with demonstrations being held around the world.
Following Black Lives Matter Rallies in Melbourne and Sydney, on Saturday an estimated 600 people marched through Brisbane’s CBD. In addition to showing solidarity between Australians and the African American community, the Stop Aboriginal Deaths in Custody and Free West Papua campaigns were incorporated in the protest.
Event organiser Joey Kollie says that in Australia, it is important that Black Lives Matter incorporates First Nations and West Papuan issues.
Event organiser Anita Goon Wymara says that in 2016 it is unacceptable that there are atrocities still being committed and that some Australians are on the wrong side of humanity.
Editor of Black Rising Magazine, Pekeri Ruska says that although there were some who were opposed to the rally, It was important for White Australians to attend.
Free West Papua Campaigner Joanne Pavia spoke at the protest and says that it was great to see a spotlight given to the West Papuan campaign.
(FEATURE IMAGE: Mitchell Stephen Conlan)
