For a while, there was intense outrage in the media over the homicide of 23-year-old Elijah McCain. He was killed by police officers because he was wearing a mask to stay warm from the cold (Tompkins, 2020). Even though he passed away in 2019, the Black Lives Matter movement’s rebirth gave his case a new life. The activists demanded reconsideration of the previous charges and apprehension of police officers on the account of manslaughter. For me this case is a product of hate and prejudice. The death of a young Elijah was quite a shocking revelation about injustice that is taking place in the country. It demonstrates the social solidarity of people on the injustice that has taken a place.
Murder is an instance of formal deviant conduct. Although it is evident that killing individuals is not acceptable in society, it can be challenging to identify exactly which social rules are broken. In my opinion, murder violates various social norms, such as peaceful conflict resolution and maintaining a safe environment. Elijah’s situation theoretically challenges the idea behind social standards and their justification. The purpose of social norms is to provide order to society. Even when they adhere to societal rules, black people experience hardship, as time has repeatedly shown. This ought to be a warning sign that something needs to change and that it needs to be addressed.
Results have undoubtedly been mixed when it comes to social control efforts that have been put in place. Having community patrols handle any unforeseen situations before they escalate to the police was one unexpected idea that was gratifying. I have read several accounts on Twitter about how neighbors have rescued vulnerable folks. I truly like seeing it, and I hope it continues. Along with more official consequences like legislation passed as a direct result of the Black Lives Matter movement, there are also more informal sanctions like increased training for police personnel.
Reference
Tompkins, L. (2020).Here’s what you need to know about Elijah Mcclain’s death. The New York Times.