On April 4, police stopped the 26-year-old Black man in Grand Rapids, Michigan. An officer asked Lyoya — who immigrated from the Democratic Republic of Congo — to get back in the car. After questioning whether Lyoya had a driver’s license, the officer grabbed him and Lyoya ran away. At one point, the officer tackled Lyoya to the ground, repeatedly asking him to let go of his Taser. Then the officer shot Lyoya in the head, killing him.
I can imagine the reaction.
Outrage. Grand Rapids has a majority white population. 18% is Black. And there’s a history of tensions with police (see: this, this, and this). The state’s Supreme Court is considering a lawsuit over the policy of photographing and fingerprinting when never charging a person with a crime. Lyoya’s killing also resonates on a national level: in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement, the rate of police killings isn’t believed to have dropped. Last year, Black Americans accounted for 27% of those killed by police — twice the rate of white Americans.
What happens now?
State police are investigating the shooting. In the meantime, the officer is on paid leave. And the police chief refuses to name him without charges. Yesterday, hundreds protested outside the city’s police department. Lyoya’s family is expected to hold a news conference later today.
theSkimm
It's been almost two years since the death of George Floyd reinvigorated the Black Lives Matter movement. Since then, the death toll for Black Americans has risen in the hundreds.
And Also...This
Who’s thinking ‘I might need some backup’…
Finland and Sweden. Yesterday, Finland’s government confirmed it was debating applying to join NATO. For decades, the Finns — who share a border with Russia — have shied away from the US-led alliance. Now, ever since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine Finland and neighboring Sweden are saying ‘actually let me reconsider.’ Yesterday, Finland’s government presented a report to the parliament to kick off debate, with Finnish PM Sanna Marin saying a decision could come "within weeks" — not months. The statement came as part of a joint news conference with Sweden, which is doing a similar security review to be wrapped up by May.
Who’s scrambling for necessities…
Parents. Earlier this week, major retailers including Target, CVS, and Walgreens said they were limiting purchases of baby formulas online and in stores. The news comes amid supply chain issues and a formula shortage after some brands were recalled due to reports of contamination. But the impact could be striking. Only a quarter of babies are exclusively breastfed. Meaning, 75% or more of babies in the US rely on formula for part or all of their nutrition. Pediatricians are saying to reach out to your child’s doctor for alternative options. Manufacturers say they are working on the issue.
PS: Here's why some moms opt to use formula, breastmilk, or both.
Who’s in police custody…
The Brooklyn subway gunman. Yesterday, police captured and arrested the man accused of shooting 10 people on a subway this week. The suspect — who had been on the run for over 24 hours — tipped off police about where to find him. The 62-year-old Black man had videos decrying racism and mental health treatment in NYC — specifically attacking Mayor Eric Adams (D) for his policies. He faces terrorism charges and life in prison.
What's still on the packing list…
Masks. Yesterday, the CDC extended the federal transportation mask mandate through May 3. Meaning masks up on planes, trains, and other types of public transportation.
About how many chocolate bunnies are sold for Easter every year in the US. Excuse us while we hop to it…
Looking for your own source of sugar? Walmart has all the chocolate, candy, baskets, flowers, decorations, and groceries you need to celebrate in style. Plus everything for the perfect non-Easter BBQ, too. Sounds like it’s about time to sign up for Walmart+ – and get it all delivered ASAP. How egg-ceptional.
Skimm Life
Spring has sprung. Which means we’re ditching our winter boots and ushering in way more sunshine, a fresh wardrobe, and anything and everything to beat those infamous achoos. Check out…
The last day to file your taxes is Monday. (Or Tuesday, if you're in Maine or Massachusetts.) If you’re a last-minute filer, don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to get ‘em done before it’s too late. Oh, and for free. In some cases, there are age requirements (hello, IRS). But in others, getting started is as easy as signing up. We’ve got the rundown of the best apps for filing your taxes for free. You got this.
Skimm Picks
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Smart shorts that take the (guess)work out of kegels. Because they’re harder to nail than you might think. Enter: INNOVO’s non-invasive kegel exerciser. Which engages your entire pelvic floor. So you can say ‘hi’ to stronger muscles and ‘bye’ to bladder leaks. How pee-rfect.*
2. An on-the-go lifesaver for anyone who loves coffee. Or tea. Or red wine. Aka anything that could stain those pearly whites. This pen uses clean, clinically proven ingredients to brighten your smile fast. Without causing sensitivity. PS: Skimm’rs get 50% off with code SMILE50.*
3.Quick, convenient care for those less-than convenient headaches or migraines. You know the ones. This virtual clinic lets you make same-day appointments with a neurologist, chat 24/7 with your care team, and start a personalized treatment plan. Plus Skimm’rs get a special discount.*
4. An easier way to sign up for term life insurance. Or get a quote. Or just get your Qs answered. This online life insurance agency offers friendly, reliable support no matter where you are in your finance journey. Head here to get started.*
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Spirited sipping…Olivia L (NY). She created Night In, a line of downtime drinks that celebrate those glorious plan-free evenings. With 5.9% ABV and a unique Asian twist inspired by the flavors she grew up with. Oh, and Skimm’rs get 10% off with code SkimmCheers. Bottoms up.*
(Some) Birthdays…theSkimm's Andrew Callaway (NY), Christina Baker (CT), Sarah Michelle Gellar (CA), Amy Schneider (NJ), Megan Hull (AZ), Nicole Bee (CA), Sharon Wherry (NE), Sherri Kuo (NY), Karli McCann (OR), Cassidy Cohen (NY), AB Carter (NC), Cecilia Kellogg (MI), Nicole Werking (CA), Ani Moushigian (MA), Abby Teinert (TX)
Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
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