In a repeat of August, during the protests that erupted after the Michael Brown shooting, Missouri governor Jay Nixon has enacted another state of emergency order. On this occasion, Nixon is acting in anticipation of the grand jury decision in the Michael Brown case that will decide whether Officer Darren Wilson will be charged for Brown's death.
Brown was 18 years old when he was shot on August 9 in a street in the Missouri suburb of Ferguson-a mostly black area known for long-term racial problems, as conflicts between residents and a mostly white police force have led to an uneasy tension. The unarmed Brown was walking with a friend when Wilson observed that Brown's appearance was similar to that of a suspect in a convenience store theft that had occurred shortly beforehand. Witnesses of the incident have stated that Brown's hands were raised skyward when he was fatally shot by Wilson.
The mostly peaceful protests that occurred after the shooting were publicized around the world, as angry Ferguson residents aired their grievances. However, looting and rioting triggered a state of emergency response, and tear gas canisters and rubber bullets were fired on Missouri streets.
Protestors were once again visible on Monday, as they appeared in the Missouri city of Clayton, where the grand jury process is taking place. A participating representative of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) said to the media that protestors are serious about making a difference and are ready for the "long haul". Although an exact date has not been given for the grand jury's decision, the prosecution expects an outcome to be released in mid-to-late November.
St Louis' Mayor Francis Slay came out in support of Nixon's state of emergency order, explaining that the local National Guard troops that will be activated are necessary for "visibility and deterrence". Nixon's own words informed the public that he is addressing the "possibility of expanded unrest". In addition to the National Guard presence, the St Louis County Police, rather than Ferguson officers, will be given authority over any protests.
According to CBC News, protest organizers intend to be outside the Ferguson Police Department at the time that the grand jury's decision is announced. They will then return to the Clayton County Courthouse, where they were on Monday.
