The shooting of Keith L. Scott in Charlotte, North Carolina caused catalyzed something on Winthrop's campus - movement. An emotional vigil was held at the Concourse in memory of victims of police brutality. A die-in at the Digiorgio Student Center and Tillman Hall occurred to create conversation. Now, students are working together to promote unity among campus.

To me, this is all amazing. I did not participate in these events, but even I felt impacted. Also, it made me realize how far the United States has come along as a nation, but how much work has to be done.

Before the die-ins on campus, I read an article about Alfred Olango, a mentally ill black man that was shot by the police. His sister called them for assistance, not to shoot him down. I was shocked and appalled me because it was a man who needed aid, not bullets.

I also realized how many people do not understand the Black Lives Matter movement. I am not actively involved in the movement, but I support it and the message it sends. Some people cannot understand this, and I found myself explaining it to them so that they can at least understand. The movement is not meant to underscore the lives of anyone not African-American; it is meant to bring awareness to the ongoing struggles of black people, especially with police brutality.

With all the media attention happening, body cameras are starting to become more mandatory. Not only will reduce the possibility of police brutality against black people, but it could address police discrimination in general. Although there is still some work to be done to change attitudes, I hope that more action comes along within the next years. While that happens, I await the plans for unity at Winthrop University.