A Familiar Fear

A deeper dive into the Tyreek Hill detainment in Miami The recent detainment of NFL star wide receiver Tyreek Hill, just before the Dolphins’ 2024 season opener, offers yet another example of the aggressive tactics employed by law enforcement, especially when dealing with Black men. Hill, who was pulled over for speeding, found himself yanked from his car and pinned to the pavement, even though no serious crime had been committed. For many of us, this interaction feels all too familiar, triggering the deep-rooted fear that any encounter with the police could be our last. Hill’s case echoes what Black and brown communities have long understood: even a routine traffic stop can escalate into a life-or-death situation. As bodycam footage revealed, the police officer in question shouted commands before pulling Tyreek Hill from his car, despite Hill showing no signs of aggression. Should Hill have raised up his tinted window during the traffic stop? Probably not. However, the officer’s actions, described by Hill as excessive and violent, highlight the very reason why many Black men panic during police interactions. We’re not afraid because we’re guilty of a crime; we’re afraid because history has shown us that we could end up...