Heartbreakingly, Young Black and Latino Boys Ask ‘Why Am I a Target?’

May 23, 2015 / Just Us Project

“Our lives matter. And so did theirs.” This video uses #BlackLivesMatter in a creative way to put a face to who we’re talking about. Share to make sure others know, too.

With Love,
The Editors at Everyday Feminism

Click for the Transcript

Several Black and latino boys, ranging from small children to teenagers, are holding a variety of #blacklivesmatter posters, including ones with words reading “My life matters,” “Justice,” “Hands up,” and signs painted to look like targets.

Why?

Why are you following me?

Why my hoodie make me look suspicious?

Why does my music make me dangerous?

Why are the people who are supposed to protect me attacking me?

Why are you afraid of me?

Why do you think I’m dangerous?

Why am I afraid of people who are supposed to protect me?

Why can’t I make a peace sign without you labeling it a gang sign?

Why does standing your ground only work when I’m on the ground?

Why do you show this photo over this one?

Why do you only stop and frisk me?

Why do you have low expectations for me?

Why can’t I run down the street without causing alarm?

Why do you think I’m a thug?

Why do you assume I’m armed?

Why can’t I breathe?

Why is my mom scared every time I leave the house?

Why are you targeting me?

Why am I a target?

Why?

I know why.

And it has to stop.

It must stop.

Because I have dreams.

Because I can change the world.

Because I will make a difference.

Because I have a family.

Because I am strong.

Because I am talented.

I have a voice.

I can find a cure.

I have goals.

I can lead the country.

I am determined.

I have a future.

Because I’m a scholar.

I am powerful.

I’m someone’s friend.

I’m someone’s brother.

I’m someone’s son.

Someone loves me.

And because my life matters too.

My life matters.

All lives matter.

And so did theirs.

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Just Us Project is a new Multi-Media Series created by Filmmaker Kiri Laurelle Davis, that began as documentary but evolved into a movement. This media-series takes an inside look at youth of color lost, exploited and targeted within the Justice System. The project also uncovers many of the unconstitutional and loop-hole practices within the system, that are trapping minority youth and what individuals/organizations are now doing to fight back. Learn more about this project and ways you can support at www.JustUsProject.org. You can also check them out on YouTube and on Twitter @JustUsProject.