Tampa, FL – University of South Florida (USF) students rallied in solidarity with protesters in Baltimore, April 30. Over 100 students gathered at the USF library and marched to MLK plaza, chanting “No justice, no peace, no racist police.” Upon reaching MLK plaza, protesters formed a circle, while leading activists gave speeches. The speeches addressed the need to fight for justice in the face of police brutality. Many student speakers denounced the corporate media for lying and distorting.

Jared Austin of Tampa Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) said, “Today was a great day for solidarity on the USF campus in regards to the Baltimore movement that is currently sweeping the nation out of anger and frustration over the execution of Freddie Gray. Today shed light on the fact that the U.S. has long been in need of systematic reform of the racist police institution that has terrorized the Black community for too long. While today was certainly a step in the right direction, we as students need to continue our solidarity and struggle in this fight against racist police and these brutal killings as they happen in our own communities. It’s time to truly show that black lives matter!”

The Tampa police department is in the center of a controversy involving the persecution of African American bicyclists.

“Racism is ingrained into American culture and society, there is no tiptoeing around or reforming it. Law enforcement is no exception. We came together because we wanted to stand in solidarity with Baltimore's Black community and condemn what is one of the many every day realities that they face. If we don't stand together against these atrocities, then nobody will, it is not optional, it is our moral duty as fellow human beings,” said George Nasser, a student at USF.

More Baltimore solidarity protests are planned over the next few days.

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