Ricky Aiken, social worker via Zoom
“There really had to be a policeman to press his knee on a black man’s neck – for eight minutes, eight minutes – so that white people would finally understand what we have been saying all along. Yes, I remain hopeful but it pains me how little our voices have been heard in the history of this country. “
Millions of Americans have been taking to the streets for weeks after the violent death of George Floyd. The anger and despair over racism and police violence run deep.
Ricky Aiken has been campaigning for years to ensure that black young people in America get a chance: In 2017 we accompanied the street worker at his work in West Palm Beach. Poverty, drugs and gun violence are commonplace in this neighborhood. Enemy gangs often fight against each other in broad daylight.
Ricky Aiken, social worker
“We are currently on our tour of the district. We speak to anyone who wants to talk. Many people know us from the neighborhood. That is our strength that we do not come from outside.”
Youngster on the street
“Everything our ancestors achieved was in vain because we forgot who the enemy was. Instead, we turned our guns on each other.” – “Yes, that’s what this is about.”
Woman on the street
“We need support, money for us low-income earners who do not work or only work by the hour. I have to sleep in my car. Everything is in here in the trunk. My bedclothes, my clothes, everything.”
Ricky is currently looking after 30 young people with his organization “Inner City Innovators”. You can get support in school or in finding an apprenticeship. Long before the violent death of George Floyd, it was Ricky’s routine to instruct young men how to behave in the presence of the police so as not to endanger their lives.
Ricky Aiken, social worker
“If a cop stops you, you turn off the engine and open the window. It’s best if you have your driver’s license and ID ready before you stop the car and you should put your hands out the window. And when the police approach the car , then they respond with “Yes, Sir” or “No, Sir.” This situation is not suitable for fighting a fight. Even if you feel you are being treated unfairly, this is not the time to fight yourself fight back. ”
The homicide rate in West Palm Beach fell by 30 percent last year – organizations like Ricky’s certainly have a share in this. He no longer trusts the promises made by politicians in Washington.
Ricky Aiken, social worker
“My philosophy is that change has to come from the people who need it. If you really want to change something in neighborhoods with a lot of violence, you have to strengthen the people who come from these areas – like me. After all, who should be bigger Interested in changing these neighborhoods? Tired of losing my little brothers and friends and loved ones to gun violence and imprisonment. “
Despite everything, the images of the nationwide protests give Ricky courage. He hopes that the votes of black voters will be decisive in the upcoming presidential election.
Ricky Aiken, social worker
“We really deserve someone to lead the country better. The protests should focus on making sure that everyone is registered to vote and everyone understands the importance of the upcoming election.”
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