Bringing relief and help to people who have lost an eye by rubber bullets at protests around the country
On Friday May 29, photojournalist and author Linda Tirado was covering a protest in Minneapolis when she was shot in the eye by a rubber bullet used by police. In less than 24 hours and after a surgery - Linda lost her left eye and now is now blind on that side. With her life turned around and now visually impaired, Linda is finding ways to cope. Late at night, as I read her story and the stories of three other individuals who have lost an eye and their sight (in less than 24 hours) due to the use of rubber bullets - I felt that I need to do something and couldn't stay on my couch. So I got on social media and reach out to Linda, and others. After a call with Linda, it became very clear - I am announcing that Sunu will provide help and relief by gifting a Sunu Band to people who are suffering through the trauma of eye injuries and blindness due to actions and use of non-lethal devices for crowd control at peaceful protests.
Linda will be receiving a Sunu Band next week along with connections and support to organizations groups and professionals in the blind and visually impaired community who will be helping her along her new life journey.
A new danger in the air
A new danger is in the air that can leave anyone blind -- rubber bullets, paint balls, tear gas, all mechanisms used by the police for crowd control. Life-altering eye injuries are a common result of urban warfare and rioting. We have seen it around the world and we now see it in the United States. In just 24 hours, I've read about 3 people who have lost an eye because of rubber bullets. Americans have the right to speak and congregate publicly and should be able to exercise that right without the fear of blindness.
SIX WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR EYES DURING A PROTEST OR WHEN RUBBER BULLETS ARE USED AGAINST THE CROWD.
I also published an article on my blog based on my research on how best people can protect their eyes (and themselves) if they participate in a peaceful protest, march or rally and in the event that they encounter police action and the use of rubber bullets, tear gas, pepper balls and sprays. These form of 'non-lethal' devices can cause sever harm to the eyes.
How can you help?
My personal mission is making the world more accessible. As WE lift up our voices for justice, to end racism, inequality and oppression, everyone of us are 'able'. Please consider sharing these articles and help raise public awareness. If you are able, please consider increasing your investment in Sunu by $25, $50, or $100. Or you prefer to donate a Sunu Band to someone else like Linda, please reach out to me directly at fernando@sunu.com.