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Photos: Remembering the killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson

“Gangs have stopped being violent. Kids walk around more joyfully. There is a sense of peacefulness and safety because the police are more aware of their actions.”
“Gangs have stopped being violent. Kids walk around more joyfully. There is a sense of peacefulness and safety because the police are more aware of their actions.”
Image: Reuters/Adrees Latif
By
Helen Donahue
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This piece has been corrected.

Sunday, August 9, marks the anniversary of 18-year-old Michael Brown’s fatal shooting by a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri. Brown’s death ignited protests and demonstrations in the St. Louis suburb, and catalyzed a national conversation about racism and police brutality in the United States.

Local officer Darren Wilson, who shot and killed the unarmed black teen, was never indicted for his actions. But questioning police use-of-force and demanding regulation of authority remain vital issues today. This weekend, in Brown’s memory, many protestors are out on the streets in Ferguson again.

The photos below reveal the emotional aftermath of Ferguson, told through Reuters photographer Adrees Latif‘s portraits and interviews with local residents.

“You can talk about change but until it is put into practice it’s just words.” - Donald Harry, 57

Donald Harry, 57, a home owner, poses for a portrait while grilling in his backyard.
Donald Harry, 57, a home owner, poses for a portrait while grilling in his backyard.
Image: Reuters/Adrees Latif

“Despite everything that happened, I still wouldn’t move because I love this community.” – Bridget Guthrie, 52

Bridget Guthrie, 52, a pharmacy technician, poses for a portrait.
Bridget Guthrie, 52, a pharmacy technician, poses for a portrait.
Image: Reuters/Adrees Latif

“I mistrust the government now because the aftermath of Michael Brown’s death was politically driven. The destruction and hate was all driven by politics.” – Steve Hewkin, 57

Steve Hewkin, 57, poses for a portrait in his auto body shop.
Steve Hewkin, 57, poses for a portrait in his auto body shop.
Image: Reuters/Adrees Latif

“I do not want to live here no more because it’s scary. I heard the tear gas [being fired]. My mom locked us up in our room [during the protests].” – Shakira Pope, 8

Shakira Pope, 8, an elementary school student, holds her dog.
Shakira Pope, 8, an elementary school student, holds her dog.
Image: Reuters/Adrees Latif

“I don’t trust the law anymore. I could be next.” – Randy Johnson, 17

Randy Johnson, 17, a high school student, poses for a portrait between games of basketball outside a friend’s residence.
Randy Johnson, 17, a high school student, poses for a portrait between games of basketball outside a friend’s residence.
Image: Reuters/Adrees Latif
Last year’s protests: This is what American history looks like today.
Last year’s protests: This is what American history looks like today.
Image: Reuters/Jim Young

Correction (August 9): This piece originally misidentified the police officer who shot Michael Brown. He is Darren, not David, Wilson.