I can't breathe facts for kids

I can't breathe is a slogan that became very important for the Black Lives Matter movement in the United States. This phrase comes from the last words spoken by Eric Garner. In 2014, Eric Garner, an unarmed black man, died after New York City police officers used a hold on him that made it hard for him to breathe.

Many other black people have also said this phrase. This includes George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man. In 2020, he died in Minneapolis, Minnesota. A Minneapolis police officer kept his knee on Floyd's neck for almost nine minutes.

The words I can't breathe have become a powerful chant used in protests. George Floyd told police officers he could not breathe more than 20 times before he died.

What "I Can't Breathe" Means

The phrase "I can't breathe" shows the struggle and pain of people who feel they are being treated unfairly. It highlights issues of police brutality and racial injustice. When people chant these words, they are calling for change and for everyone to be treated with respect and fairness.

Why This Slogan Is Important

This slogan is important because it brings attention to serious problems in society. It helps people understand the experiences of others and encourages them to speak up. The phrase has been used in many protests around the world. It reminds everyone that all people deserve to be safe and to have their rights protected.

Images for kids

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  Justice for All March/National March Against Police Violence, Washington, D.C., December 2014

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  Berlin, Massachusetts, December 2014

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  Speakers at a December 2014 march in Washington, D.C.

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  A protester holds a sign saying "I Can't Breathe Momma," at a Black Lives Matter Rally in Dumfries, Virginia. "I Can't Breathe Mama," was one of the last words said by George Floyd while he was being murdered.

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  Minneapolis, May 28, 2020