Black Lives Matter goals explained

In response to James Obler (letter July 24), there were arguments that need to be corrected.

First, there is a misperception that the Black Lives Matter Movement means only “some” lives matter. This is false. Yes, all lives do matter; there is no argument there. However, Black Lives Matter was created because of the continuous killings of black individuals from the police, as well as addressing racism within our nation and world.

Another misleading argument is that those supporting BLM are “complaining about their situation” and demanding the government take care of their personal needs through civil disobedience, protest, etc. This argument is false because those involved with BLM are not asking for their personal needs to be cared for by the government, but rather demanding that the racism embedded within our institutions, policies and beliefs be eradicated.

Protest and civil disobedience has been a major tool for social change – before America was even created.

For there to be equity, black lives and lives of people of color who are marginalized need to matter, too, in this world.

This story was originally published July 27, 2016 at 11:29 AM with the headline "Black Lives Matter goals explained."