A decade after its inception, the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement is commemorating its 10th anniversary by advocating for the establishment of "Black Lives Matter Day" on July 13th. This initiative is part of the newly launched "Defund the Police Week of Action," featuring virtual and in-person events aimed at revitalizing the movement's push to redirect funding from police departments towards community investment.

BLM board member D’Zhane Parker emphasized the focus on community-centered safety measures, arguing that true safety arises not from increased policing, but from improved access to economic opportunities, quality education, stable housing, and healthcare. Parker highlighted that the safest global communities prioritize these resources over intensified law enforcement.

Originating in 2013 following the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the Trayvon Martin shooting, the BLM movement seeks to address police brutality and racial bias within the criminal justice system. The movement has released a digital advertisement reiterating its call to defund police departments nationwide.

Several BLM chapters across major cities are organizing events to mark the anniversary. In Los Angeles, the "#BLMTurns10 People’s Justice Festival" will feature a memorial garden dedicated to victims of police violence and race-related crimes. Sybrina Fulton, Trayvon Martin's mother, and scholar/activist Dr. Cornel West are scheduled to speak at the festival.

This anniversary coincides with recent Supreme Court decisions on student loan forgiveness and affirmative action, prompting BLM activist Melina Abdullah to reaffirm the movement's commitment to its cause. Abdullah stressed the importance of continued advocacy, especially in the face of setbacks. She emphasized the need to fight for justice regardless of its popularity.

The acquittal of Zimmerman, who claimed self-defense in the shooting of Martin, sparked nationwide protests and led to the formation of numerous BLM chapters. Subsequent incidents of police brutality and racial violence, amplified by social media, fueled the movement's growth. The 2014 police shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, further propelled the movement, with co-founders Patrisse Cullors, Alicia Garza, and Ayo Tometi playing key roles in its expansion.

The phrase "Black Lives Matter" quickly gained traction as a rallying cry. The 2020 death of George Floyd, who died after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck, brought unprecedented support and donations to the movement.