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I remember my dad always complaining about getting pulled over. I remember the differences in school systems. I remember seeing police officers, not knowing their names, and knowing that they were there not to protect us, not to serve us, but to watch us.
Malcolm Jenkins
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote reflects on the experience of growing up in an environment where authority figures are viewed with suspicion rather than trust.

Malcolm Jenkins shares a personal reflection on his upbringing, highlighting a sense of distrust towards law enforcement and a recognition of systemic inequalities within educational institutions. His recollections suggest a broader commentary on the relationship between marginalized communities and institutions that are meant to provide safety and support, bringing to light the struggles and feelings of alienation faced by many in similar situations.

Themes

JusticeDiscriminationPoliceEducationTrust

In practice

Example use cases

During a community meeting about police relations, this quote can illustrate the mistrust felt by residents.

More from Malcolm Jenkins

There is nothing that says you can't be active and love your community and fight for your community and still do your job.
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I grew up playing in the streets. We played two-hand touch from street pole to street pole. That's how I learned the game.
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Our biggest thing is, any player who's protesting will tell you that the only reason we use the anthem is because it's a platform like no other. We use it to draw attention to other issues. We've heard from many people, 'Use a different venue. Use a different platform.' Quite frankly, this is the most effective one.
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When I look at our communities, our country, our justice system, those are things I want to change and I'm committed to changing, and that's going to take sacrifice. Laying the foundation is the hardest part and requires a lot of sacrifice and time.
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The people who have been unjustly disenfranchised by our criminal justice system and the people who daily fight for them always have, and always will be, the inspiration and focus of my efforts.
Malcolm JenkinsRead
Communities of color have also had to watch video after video of unarmed black men and women being handled without regard for their lives or well-being. As a black man, I see these images, and I see myself; I wonder whether this will happen to me or one of my loved ones.
Malcolm JenkinsRead

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