6/8 Update

a. There are video updates on Instagram at @sadenochillsmith
b. We are creating a website with all the information in one place.
c. SPD is hunting down protesters and community is getting charged. We are challenging that through a writ to the Court of Appeals, Division 1. It was filed this morning for a community member arrested this weekend. This is the same community member who posted the video of SPD tear gassing a 8-9 year old child.
d. Ms. Ebberhard was arrested by SPD and videos of the attack were posted on social media. Claiming she assaulted them days prior, SPD showed up, did not identify themselves, maced her in her vehicle with her 9-year-old child, and partner present.
e. Note: at the court hearing the State asked for $25k bail AND posts from her social media were used. SPD is reviewing social media and targeting people.
f. Also Note: SPD launched tear gas at protesters on Capital hill. They continue to escalate and instigate violence. They threw flash bombs. The military personnel I videoed Saturday entering and leaving Court were lined up in fascist style formation. Clear methods of intimidation. SPD was on buildings pointing lasers into the crowd, tear gassing people, and intimidating.
g. King County Council member Girmay Zahilay & Community Leader Omari Salisbury have front line footage on each of their social media pages.
h. Jena will be on video telling her story! The impacted must control the narrative of liberation. Liberation must humanize and empower. She and I are discussing more this afternoon but what she has submitted so far is powerful.
i. Understand, liberation only comes from complete abolition. Policing is one area but abuse of power, and oppression will always occur when there are hierarchical systems at play.
j. Consider reading ‘Pedagogy of the Oppressed,’ by Paulo Freire, and ‘Feminism is for Everyone,’ by bell hooks. Both give language to what we are observing and how to move forward. bell hooks’ critique of feminism shows us intersectional feminism is inclusive and liberating for everyone.
k. Lastly, the account for the GFM was opened. I will link this to the bank account and start distributing funds. Staff and attorney Talitha Hazelton will be compensated for their work. Working on protester cases means other work can't be done, thus the need to compensate to cover expenses and self care. Funds will be used to cover business expenses. Individuals sharing stories will receive reparations for the harm they’ve experienced, and the emotional energy used to tell their stories. This is not at all enough but a step toward equity.