What is benton harbor riots?

The Benton Harbor riots took place in June 2003 in the city of Benton Harbor, Michigan. The riots were sparked by longstanding tensions between the predominantly African American community and the police department, which was mostly white. The immediate trigger for the riots was the death of a 28-year-old black man named Terrance Shurn, who was killed while fleeing a Benton Harbor police officer.

The riots began on June 16, 2003, the day after Shurn's death, and continued for several days. Protesters set fire to buildings, overturned cars, and clashed with police officers. Several people were injured, and dozens were arrested.

The riots brought national attention to Benton Harbor and highlighted the deep-seated racial and economic disparities that existed in the city. In the years following the riots, efforts were made to address these issues through community programs and initiatives aimed at improving education, job opportunities, and police-community relations.

The Benton Harbor riots were a tragic reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice in America, and a call to action for all those committed to building a more just and equitable society.