Protesters demand justice for Jacob Blake in Merrick

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Nearly 100 people marched through Merrick on Wednesday night to denounce the police shooting of a Black man in Kenosha, Wis. On Aug. 23, Jacob Blake was shot mulitple times in the back by a police officer during an arrest. The shooting was captured on cellphone video and ignited new protests over racial injustice in several cities, the Associated Press reports. 

The demonstration was organized by Long Island Peaceful Protests, a nonprofit that aims to spread awareness about systemic racism and police brutality on Long Island.  A lineup of local activists spoke passionately about the unfair treatment of Black and brown people by law enforcement, and demanded accountability from elected officials to prosecute officers who abuse their power.

Afterwards, protesters marched northbound on Merrick Avenue to carry their message through the hamlet, roaring as they chanted, "Black Lives Matter," "no justice, no peace" and "say his name," referring to Blake and others.

Protest organzier Terrel Tuosto, of West Hempstead, delivered opening remarks at the gazebo under the Merrick LIRR trestle. "It’s become way too commonplace in this country for a Black man or woman to be shot by police as if our lives don’t matter," he said. "Jacob Blake is only the most recent example, and there have been plenty.

"We’re fighting against a crooked system — against the police that are supposed to serve and protect us — and we will not stop fighting until we see equality and justice," he added.

Among the speakers was Akbar Rogers, a Freeport man who was wrestled to the ground while being arrested by village police last December. Video captured by a bystander shows seven white officers on top of Rogers, with one officer kicking him and another punching him. 

"I’m lucky to be alive to share my truth, and God-willing so will Jacob as soon as he recovers," Rogers said. "He got shot in the back multiple times, in front of his kids — who’s gonna be next?"

Rogers and other speakers called on Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Attorney General Letitia James to launch an independent investigation into the Freeport Police Department concerning Rogers' case. In July, U.S. Senator Kristen Gillibrand asked the state to investigate the arresting  officers, who the Nassau County district attorney declined to prosecute on July 7. 

"Law and order have to be applied equally to all," Rogers added. "We need a change and we need it right now."

Blake's attorney said Tuesday that the 29-year-old is now paralyzed as a result of the shooting, the AP reported.

Ronny Reyes contributed to this story.