Here’s how you can take a stand for the death of George Floyd

From Runner's World

The recent horrifying killings of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd have sparked widespread protests against systemic racism and police brutality in America, as people have taken to the streets to make their voices heard in hundreds of cities across the nation.

On February 23, Arbery, a 25-year-old black man, was out for a run near his neighbourhood in Satilla Shores, Georgia, when he was shot and killed by two white men, who reportedly thought he looked like a potential suspect in recent break-ins. On March 13, Taylor, a 26-year-old black woman, was shot and killed while she was sleeping in Louisville, Kentucky, by police officers who forcefully entered her apartment. On Monday, May 25, Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed by a white former police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota, who forcefully knelt on his neck until he could no longer breathe.

Arbery’s death shook the running community to its core, forcing many people to consider the privilege and protection provided just by the colour of their skin. Taylor’s and Floyd’s deaths also served as just another reminder of the institutional racism that is so prevalent throughout our country, and it’s clear that there’s not enough accountability where it matters. Absolutely none of this is okay.

At this point, the killings and subsequent protests are no longer just news, but also part of history. Protests have been happening for a week; the vast majority of them are peaceful, but in some situations, the civil unrest has elevated to destruction and looting. Journalists have been arrested and abused, threatening our freedom of press.

We must continue to amplify the right voices when it comes to racial injustices. Whether you are participating in protests or if you want to do as much as you can from home, in the form of signing a petition and making a donation, here are just a few of the organisations demanding justice in the wake of George’s, Ahmaud’s, and Breonna’s unjust deaths that are worthy of your donations right now and always:

Black Lives Matter UK

The UK branch of Black Lives Matter, which aims to end white supremacy and calls for those who haven't spoken out to break their silence.

Operation Black Vote

The group works to ensure greater racial justice and equality within the UK.

The Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust

In memory of 18-year-old Stephen Lawrence, who was murdered by a group of white men in 1993, the organisation works to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and support them in their future careers.

StopWatch

The group promotes effective, accountable and fair policing, focusing on stop and search laws which disproportionately target people of colour.

The National Memorial Family Fund

The first permanent national resource of its kind, specifically for those that are affected by deaths in custody.

Stand Up To Racism

An organisation highlighting the power of uniting as one in the fight against racism in all its forms.

BTEG

The national charity aims to end racial inequality through education and employment.

Several runners have spoken out about the protests and the Black Lives Matter movement on their social media feeds:

You Might Also Like

• Best running shoes 2019: the best men's and women's running trainers, tested in the lab and on the road

• 7 of the best dumbbells for your home workouts

• Best coaching headphones for runners