(Liberal Voice Network) – In an unfortunate turn of events, the vibrant and diverse Pioneers Run Crew from Massachusetts experienced an unwelcome encounter with the police during the Boston Marathon. Known for their enthusiastic support of runners at the grueling 21st mile, the mainly Black cheer squad found themselves encircled by over a dozen officers, raising concerns about racial profiling and excessive policing.
Videos shared on Instagram, now circulating among fellow runners and marathon enthusiasts, shed light on the troubling incident. The police presence created an atmosphere of intimidation as the cheer squad, barricaded from the street, faced scrutiny while offering words of encouragement and exchanging high fives with passing runners. The predominantly Black and brown members of the cheer zone felt that this unwarranted police response was not a coincidence.
Thousands of individuals expressed frustration online, highlighting the police’s disproportionate actions that dampened the celebratory and joyful atmosphere. Witness accounts revealed runners in tears and gratitude for the squad’s support, only to be confronted by law enforcement officers who lined up to block the cheer zone. This incident left many disappointed, triggered, and disturbed, tarnishing what should have been a beautiful and celebratory moment.
Asia Rawls, a member of the cheer squad, described feeling upset when the police arrived, emphasizing that they were merely spreading happiness and positivity. Amid the confusion, one officer was overheard threatening an onlooker with arrest if they did not comply.
Despite the lack of clarity regarding their alleged wrongdoing, the police created what was likened to a “human barricade,” leaving the cheer squad without satisfactory explanations. The Metropolitan Law Enforcement Council, whose officers were dispatched to Mile 21, did not respond immediately to inquiries.
This incident is not an isolated case. Alison Mariella Désir, author of “Running While Black,” shared her own experience of facing disproportionate policing at the same Pioneers Run Crew station last year. She emphasized that running exists within a societal context rooted in white supremacy, urging intentional efforts to address these issues.
The encounter between the cheer squad and the police comes shortly after the shooting of Ralph Yarl, a 16-year-old Black teenager, by a white homeowner. The viral Instagram posts about the police interactions evoked deep fear and concern, as many wondered about potential violence and detainment. These unsettling incidents serve as a reminder of the pervasive challenges faced by Black runners and the need to confront the structural factors that perpetuate oppression.
Structural elements, including the Boston Marathon’s predominantly white host towns, contribute to the discrimination Black runners encounter. Chestnut Hill, where Mile 21 was located, is predominantly white, according to the 2022 US Census Bureau. Moving through spaces where they often feel unwanted, Black runners navigate a legacy of segregation, police presence, and zoning regulations.
Despite these obstacles, the importance of sharing joy and cheering on the runners who make history for the community cannot be understated. The Boston Marathon witnessed remarkable achievements, such as Eliud Kipchoge’s participation after breaking the world record last September. Kenyan runner Evans Chebet claimed the men’s title, having triumphed in both the New York and Boston marathons last year, while fellow Kenyan Hellen Obiri emerged as the women’s champion.
Within the context of the marathon’s rich history, including the struggle for women’s participation and the limited presence of African Americans, the outpouring of happiness from the cheer squad carries great significance. It serves as a reminder of the progress made and the ongoing journey toward inclusivity and equal recognition.