
The Vergecast Recording police brutality: how technology is driving the new civil rights movement
Sep 1, 2020
Bijan Stephen, a Verge reporter involved in the Capturing the Police project, and Mariya Abdulkaf, a video producer leading the initiative, discuss how technology amplifies the fight against police brutality. They explore the vital role of smartphones and social media in documenting these incidents, highlighting personal accounts that reveal the risks faced by witnesses. The conversation delves into the complexities of public perception, the empowerment of marginalized voices, and the transformative power of viral videos on local communities and societal narratives.
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Isaiah Benavidez's Experience
- Isaiah Benavidez, featured in a Verge video, felt increased police surveillance and anxiety after publishing his video.
- Despite this, he cooperated, recognizing the importance of raising awareness about recording police and its consequences.
Bodycam Footage
- The project's second video explored body camera footage and its influence on public perception of police violence.
- Bystander and bodycam footage add different layers to understanding these incidents.
Genre of Violence
- Videos of protests and police violence form a genre of film, shaped by camera perspective.
- Bodycams and bystander videos offer different perspectives, influencing viewer perception.

