Powerful Black Lives Matter protest photo hailed as ‘legendary’

Jonathan Bachman's image from Baton Rouge has been widely shared on social media

Protests have continued in the United States, following violent incidents involving African Americans and the police.

In an atmosphere of heightened racial tension, and amid growing debate over the seeming militarisation of American police, one photo has stood out. It was taken by Jonathan Bachman, a New Orleans-based photographer.

The image shows Ieshia Evans, a young woman in a dress standing calmly in front of two police officers wearing layers of armour, and appearing to approach her in a hurry.

Ieshia Evans’ face has now become one of the most recognized faces in America. An image of her being rushed by Baton Rouge police clad in riot gear as she stands peaceful and defiant has gone viral. Previously unidentified, Evans was alerted that the image of her was being spread across the internet, and now, she’s speaking out.

In a statement, Evans, who is a nurse, revealed that police pushed everyone off the street, which she felt was a way of silencing protestors. “They were once again leveraging their strength to leave us powerless. As Africans in America we’re tired of protesting that our lives matter, it’s time we stop begging for justice and take a stance for our people. It’s time for us to be fearless and take our power back.”

Evans who had traveled to Baton Rouge with the civil rights organization Young Minds Can, tweeted Monday, “This is the work of God. I’m a vessel, Glory to the most high! I’m alive and safe. I have not witnessed any casualties.”

BBC; Essence

~Wakenya Canada