Black Lives Matter Marks 12 Years with Global Expansion and Renewed Calls for Accountability

July 15, 2025

Black Lives Matter (BLM) has reached its 12th anniversary with 51 chapters globally and thousands of on-the-ground organizers, according to co-founder Dr. Melina Abdullah. During a recent summit in Los Angeles, organizers from across the movement gathered to discuss strategy amid what Abdullah describes as unprecedented "fascism and unmasked racism. " BLM Grassroots has released an annual action report highlighting various initiatives, including the successful campaign to free Brittany Martin, a mother imprisoned for comments made during a 2020 protest.

Who is affected

Black communities facing what Abdullah describes as intensified attacks
Families of those killed by police and white supremacy
Brittany Martin, a mother of seven who was imprisoned and later freed through BLM's efforts
Youth receiving scholarships through BLM programs
Recipients of BLM's mutual aid and food distributions
Community members using the BLM Los Angeles building for programs and services

What action is being taken

BLM is holding summits and gatherings of its 51 chapters for strategy discussions and organizing
The organization is conducting mutual aid efforts, including food distribution
BLM is operating youth scholarship programs
The group is engaging in political advocacy and policy reform campaigns like Wakiesha's Law
BLM Grassroots leaders are demanding accountability and resource redistribution from the BLM Global Network Foundation
The organization has released its annual action report detailing ongoing initiatives

Why it matters

BLM has grown to its largest size in 12 years with 51 chapters and thousands of organizers
The movement addresses what Abdullah characterizes as an unprecedented level of "fascism and unmasked racism"
Internal conflicts over resource allocation and financial stewardship affect the movement's effectiveness
BLM's advocacy has led to concrete results like freeing Brittany Martin and pursuing policy reforms
The organization provides material support to communities through mutual aid programs
The movement works to transform systems that Abdullah says "profit from Black suffering"

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint