The System

Common returns to his hometown of Chicago – a city on fire in the aftermath of the brutal police killing of teenager Laquan McDonald. With thousands of people in the streets, Chicago has become the epicenter of national debates around police violence, racism and accountability. Working with community activists and whistleblowers, Common discovers a decades-long pattern of police corruption and sophisticated cover-ups that stretch all the way to the mayor’s office. But Common also finds reason for hope. An energized movement in the streets mounts unprecedented pressure for reform. It’s clear that the system is broken — is it finally time for a change?

Watch episode 1 to view the full story.

The Issues

Solutions to Bridge the Divide

Chicago has become the epicenter of national debates around police violence, racism and accountability. The trust between community members, law enforcement and elected officials has been broken but as we see in “The System” there is a reason for hope. Measures for increased accountability and healing are taking shape through the brave actions of activists and community leaders and new elected officials who have strong community ties are changing the way policing and criminal justice is enacted.

You can be part of the change through two key actions:

1. Demand that your government and community police respect all citizen’s rights and, when abuses occur, support efforts calling for accountability.

2. Participate in efforts in your local community that empower youth and drive healing.