Toni Taylor
Essential Question
Are all lives valued equally?
Themes from Truth Testimonies
- Grief/Trauma
- Unjust Legal System
- Structural Poverty
- Racial Profiling
Description
Truth Teller Toni Taylor is the mother of 25-year-old Cary Ball Jr., who was shot 21 times by two St. Louis police officers following a high-speed pursuit for the infraction of tinted windows in his car, a traffic violation in some states. According to Toni’s testimony, Cary had a gun which he threw into the bushes following the chase. He was found on the ground with his arms in the “hands up” surrender position. Not only did Toni learn about her son’s death through television rather than a direct call from the police, but she also was unable to view her son at the morgue. Following the shooting, the two police officers returned to work on the force.
Learning Opportunities for Community Leaders and Educators
Explain to participants that they will view Toni’s testimony and that you will pause the video for a “stop and discuss” process at points where questions emerge. Allow for discussion and continue viewing her story.
Guiding questions (Stop & Discuss)
- What are your first thoughts, feelings and reactions to the story Toni Taylor shares about the police shooting of her son Cary?
- What factors contribute to the value the police placed on Cary’s life?
- What does the “hands up” posture of surrender mean to you?
- Do you think “hands up” warrants the use of force by police?
- Do you think Cary had a right to carry a registered gun, and if so, why do you think he disposed of it?
- What outcome can you anticipate had Cary kept his gun on his body?
- What is the “No chase Policy,” and how might this situation have played out differently if race wasn’t a factor?
- What can you say about a mother’s grief for a child killed by police?
- How do you think the telling of the story contributes to personal healing and social action?
Extension
Participants will view the “Justice for Cary Ball Jr.” Facebook page to learn about the various celebrations and events to honor his life: click here.
Together, design and create signage that could be either used at the most recent event or photographed to be included on this website.
Resources
Cary Ball’s family files lawsuit against city police
Black Code and Jim Crow Law examples
Black Honor Student Shot 25 Times by St. Louis Police
Long-Simmering Anger Over Police Violence Erupts At St. Louis Forum