In Ferguson, Missouri, Mike Brown, an unarmed 18-year-old Black teenager, was shot and killed by a police officer on August 9, 2014. His death and the circumstances surrounding it ignited weeks of protests and civil unrest. The death helped expose systemic racism, police brutality, and deep flaws in America’s justice system.

The killing of Mike Brown became a defining moment in modern civil rights history. It fueled the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement—a grassroots force that began as a social media hashtag and grew into a global call for justice.

In the aftermath, the U.S. Department of Justice launched an extensive investigation into the Ferguson Police Department. The report revealed a pattern of unconstitutional policing and racial discrimination. This includes excessive use of force, racial bias in traffic stops, and a municipal court system. The investigation revealed that the police department disproportionately targets African American residents for revenue through fines and fees. These practices eroded trust between law enforcement and the community.

Following the findings, the Justice Department reached a consent decree with the City of Ferguson. They required reforms in police training, community engagement, and use-of-force policies. While progress has been uneven, the agreement marked a federal acknowledgment of systemic injustices.

Ten years later, Mike Brown’s name still carries weight. His story serves as both a solemn remembrance and a call to action. His death encourages communities everywhere to continue the fight for justice, equality, and human dignity.