Five years after the death of Freddie Gray, a young Black man who died in police custody in Baltimore, Maryland, the impact of his case continues to resonate. His death sparked widespread protests and ignited a national conversation about police brutality, racial injustice, and the urgent need for reform. While significant strides have been made in the years since, the fight for true justice and equitable policing remains far from over.
The University of Maryland Carey School of Law recently held a reflective event commemorating the anniversary of Gray’s death. This gathering served as a critical opportunity to examine the progress made—and, perhaps more importantly, the substantial work that still needs to be done. Participants discussed the legal battles that followed Gray’s death, highlighting the complexities of securing accountability for police misconduct and the systemic challenges that impede justice.
One key focus was on the enduring legacy of Gray’s case in shaping legal strategies and advocacy efforts. The event showcased the ongoing efforts of legal professionals and community activists to hold police departments accountable for excessive force and discriminatory practices. It underscored the importance of continuing to fight for police reform, improved training, and greater transparency in law enforcement.
However, the discussion also acknowledged the limitations of legal reforms alone. True change, participants argued, necessitates a broader societal shift in attitudes towards race, policing, and justice. This involves addressing systemic inequalities that disproportionately impact marginalized communities and fostering a culture of accountability that extends beyond individual officers to encompass entire police departments and governmental structures.
The event served as a powerful reminder that Freddie Gray’s death was not an isolated incident. It was, and continues to be, a symptom of deeper systemic issues that require sustained attention and action. The road to achieving true justice for Gray and countless others who have suffered similar fates is long and arduous. But the ongoing efforts of legal scholars, activists, and concerned citizens offer a beacon of hope, reminding us that the fight for a more just and equitable society must continue.
