The recent events that have affected the Black community have been nothing less than traumatizing and frustrating. From Alton Sterling and Philando Castile to the murders happening on our own soil in the heart of Baltimore City. Issues such as police brutality and racism have been elephants in the room for the past week. It has started numerous debates not only on live television but also, on social media. Many try to avoid the conversation but, as people wake up, the conversations gain more substance in hopes of a solution being reached. The question that continues to linger in the back of our minds as we express how we feel in our own way is, What’s Next? Leaders of the movement are losing their followers because of their inability to produce change fast enough. People are even kicking their religious faiths to the curbside. We don’t know whom to the trust and the future looks bleak from the eyes that have cried over lost sons, fathers, brothers, and sisters repeatedly. Action is overdue and the Black community is yearning for it. We are tired of people talking the talk but have nothing to show for it. We are tired of public figures only wanting to be down for the cause on camera. This past Saturday, Baltimorean, Gary Johnson and his colleagues brought people together for a common cause. He made it quite evident that his Operation Shut It Down wasn’t just a hashtag or a protest as every word chanted was oozing with true emotions. His effort is admired as he still pushed on even though there were people who didn’t want to follow his lead. His non-conflicting methods got us through the streets of Baltimore without being arrested. I respect that he was able to keep everyone safe regardless of the different mindsets of a few. There was so much emotion flowing during Operation Shut It Down that you can tell people are fed up. Johnson displayed courage and he made it very clear that after we all left each other that night we needed to continue with the same momentum if we really want things to change. Push the envelope. I agree. Below you will find our report in pictures.