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Black Lives Matter is currently being mentioned everywhere again. Let’s briefly examine what it’s all about, why the statement is correct, and why “All Lives Matter,” although perhaps well-intentioned, is ultimately not the right approach.

The Black Lives Matter movement is receiving renewed attention due to police violence against Black people in the United States. It's nothing new that such violent confrontations occur. These incidents are part of a larger problem: the systemic discrimination and inequality that Black people have faced for centuries.

Discrimination against Black people is a deeply rooted issue that reflects in all areas of life. Black individuals face greater challenges in education, the job market, healthcare, and the justice system. They are stigmatized because of their skin color and confronted with biases based on historical stereotypes.

In the education sector, Black students often struggle with lower expectations and unequal treatment. In the workplace, Black individuals frequently receive fewer interview invitations and are paid less than their white counterparts, even with the same qualifications. In the justice system, Black people are often presumed to be disproportionately criminal. Statistics show that they are more frequently stopped, arrested, and harshly punished by the police, even for minor offenses.

To combat this discrimination, it is essential to openly address these issues. That’s precisely what the Black Lives Matter movement does. They advocate for the rights of Black people and demand justice for those who have become victims of police violence and racist discrimination.

“All Lives Matter” vs. “Black Lives Matter”

Some criticize the BLM movement, arguing that “All Lives Matter” is more appropriate. They believe that focusing on the issues faced by the Black community divides society and that all lives are equally valuable.

At first, I also thought it was self-evident that all lives matter. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear why the slogan “Black Lives Matter” is necessary. “All Lives Matter” ignores the specific challenges that Black individuals face in our society.

The slogan “Black Lives Matter” does not imply that other lives are less valuable. It simply acknowledges that Black people are disadvantaged in many areas where others are not.

Consider another example: imagine you urgently need a kidney. In this situation, the kidney is crucial for your survival. Of course, all organs in your body are important—but it’s the kidney that requires special attention.

Similarly, the Black community needs support to address the challenges they face. Therefore, focusing on “Black Lives Matter” does not mean that other lives are less valuable. It’s about addressing specific issues and creating a fairer society where all people are treated equally.

Closing Words

“Black Lives Matter” lays the groundwork for truly living out “All Lives Matter.”