Newcastle feminists protest shooting in America

Newcastle University students took to the streets to protest the shooting of Ferguson victim Michael Brown this week.

The university’s Feminist Society made their mark in response to the controversial events surrounding Brown’s death by occupying space outside of St Thomas the Matyr’s church near Haymarket.

While lying on the grass, the students held up cards reading “Black lives matter” and “Hands up, don’t shoot”.

The protest lasted four and a half minutes to mark the four and a half hours Brown’s body was left on the street of his shooting in Ferguson, after being gunned down by the NYPD following a robbery.

Riots have developed across America since the shooting occurred on August 9th this year.

Student Craig Dingwall, 19, said: “We are here today to draw attention to what’s happening across America and across the world.”

The History student continues: “What’s happening in America is not right and people are responding.”

The people of Ferguson, Missouri, have expressed their distress and disbelief about Brown’s killing, with many viewing it as racially motivated as Brown was unarmed at the time of his death.

The case continued to shock followers as the police officer who shot Brown, Darren Wilson, was found not to have committed a crime and was not indicted.

Secretary of the society, Jessica Poyner said: “It all started last week. When I heard about the indictment, I was almost in tears.

“We feel better after organising these events. We all need to take responsibility for what happens in America.”

Every member who took part donated £4.50, which will go towards the Michael Brown Memorial.

After lying on the grass Safiya Robinson, 20, a Lingustics student said: “You are aware people are looking at you, you’re very aware you are a spectacle, but it’s an important way to spread awareness.”

The society also held a second demonstration on Tuesday outside their Student’s Union, where banners were held up as well as the members holding up their hands to represent Brown was unarmed.

Lucy Morgan, President of the society said: “Feminism is not just about women, it is about race, ethnicity, all areas. This case was a breach of human rights.”

The 19-year-old also added: “We want to show that Newcastle cares. No other society is doing anything about this.”

Despite the cold, damp weather, English Literature student Lucy said the rain would not get in the way of the protest.