This project’s purpose is to shed light on police misconduct and abuse of power, through the stories of ordinary people. Interspersed with these personal accounts are articles that look deeper into different issues related to law enforcement and the community. Scroll down to begin hearing stories and reading articles.
Category: Blue notes
Phil Waller and John Blanks live in the Grays Ferry neighborhood of South Philadelphia. While celebrating a neighbor on his way to college at their block party, a series of events unfolded that led to an excessive showcase of police power. Early Experiences: Phil and John had different formative experiences and beliefs about police. … Continue reading Phil and John
In addition to the night of his neighborhood block party, Phil has had other negative experiences with police. Hear those stories now. Fit the Profile: Phil is stopped by police in Center City Philadelphia looking for a suspect who is nothing like him, except that they both have dark skin. Followed: In high school, Phil … Continue reading Phil Waller
Rob, who wished to be anonymous for this project, grew up in North Philadelphia, in a Latino family. From stories he heard from his family members, he learned to be wary of the otherwise friendly presentation of police that he was learning in school. Soon, his own experiences would confirm his family's warnings. Early Experiences: … Continue reading Rob
Jovan lives in Pennsylvania's Delaware County, right outside Philadelphia. He grew up in the state of Delaware and attended Cab Calloway High School, a school for the performing arts. On his way home from school one afternoon, he was asked by a police officer to get off the bus because he fit the description of … Continue reading Jovan Dwight
