#Blacklivesmatter: the birth of a new civil rights movement

What were Alicia Garzia and her friends waiting for in that bar in California, in July 2013?

Answer explanation

The verdict from the trial of George Zimmerman.

What was the verdict?

Answer explanation

Not guilty of second degree murder and acquitted of manslaughter.

Why did everything go quiet after the announcement of the verdict?

Answer explanation

Because the customers in the bar had been hoping for Zimmerman to be declared guilty of the charges.

How did the slogan #blacklivesmatter gain momentum?

Answer explanation

After Garza's Facebook message, her friend Cullors started reposting it, using the hashtag. They set up social media accounts, made protest signs and organized a protest march.

Why did protests break out in Missouri in August 2014?

Answer explanation

Because an unarmed 18-year-old black man - Michael Brown - was shot dead by a police officer.

Why was Garza surprised when she arrived at Ferguson that month?

• She met so many people unknown to her

• She heard her slogan and read it on the protest signs

• She had expected more demonstrators at the rally

• People were angry with her and shouted at her

According to the article, in what social areas are black Americans disadvantaged in the US? (multiple correct answers)

• Health insurance

• Voters' rights

• Employment

• Education

• Housing

What is the biggest difference between the #blacklivesmatter movement and the civil rights movement of the 20th century?

• There are no individual leaders in today's protests

• Today's movement is stronger

• Today's movement is weaker

• Those in the past are black heroes

How can the new movement gain ground so efficiently?

Answer explanation

By the mobilising force of social media.

According to the article, in what sense are eyewitness accounts from protesters a counterbalance to TV networks?

Answer explanation

They provide reports that the police and TV don't air.