ON a recent TV talk-show, a police officer chided citizens (not for the first time) for not protesting killings in their community.

There are several common-sense reasons why citizens may not protest or take action in response to killings in their community, and these reasons can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances and the local context.

Here are some common factors that can contribute to a lack of protest or action in response to such incidents: 1. Fear: Citizens may be afraid to protest or speak out against killings in their community due to concerns about their personal safety. Fear of reprisals or retaliation from those responsible for the killings or other criminal elements in the community can be a significant deterrent to speaking out or protesting. Individuals may fear for their safety, the safety of their families, or potential harm to their property. In some areas, violence and retaliation against those who speak is a real and immediate threat.

2. Lack of trust in authorities:

If community members do not trust law enforcement or local authorities to address the issue effectively, they may be less inclined to come forward or protest. This lack of trust can stem from perceptions of corruption, incompetence, or bias within the authorities.

A lack of trust in law enforcement or other authorities can lead to a belief that protests or actions will not lead to justice. If citizens believe that the system is corrupt or biased, they may feel that their efforts are futile. For example, an individual dies in police custody and the police commissioner says ‘he fell off a chair’. And no-one in the hierarchy of the TTPS utters nary a word!

3. Social stigma: There is social pressure to conform to the community’s prevailing norms or to avoid snitching on neighbours or acquaintances involved in criminal activities.

Some communities have a culture of silence or a stigma associated with speaking out against violence or criminal activity. This discourages individuals from taking action or participating in protests.

4. Trauma: Witnessing or experiencing violence in one’s community is traumatic, and individuals may be dealing with their own emotional and psychological challenges. This can make it difficult for people to actively protest or engage in advocacy efforts.

5. Normalisation and apathy:

In some communities with a history of violence or crime, residents may become desensitised to killings or view them as a tragic but expected part of their daily lives. This normalisation can lead to a sense of hopelessness or resignation. In some cases, individuals may simply feel apathetic or resigned about the state of their community. They may believe nothing can be done to change the situation, and this sense of hopelessness can lead to inaction.

6. Hopelessness: A lack of faith in the ability to effect change can lead to a sense of hopelessness.

People may believe protesting or speaking out will not make a difference, so they opt for inaction.

7. Economic dependence: In areas where residents depend on illegal activities or criminal organisations for their livelihoods, they may be reluctant to take action against these groups, as it could threaten their economic stability.

8. Lack of organised leadership: Effective protests and advocacy often require organised leadership and resources. Without a strong and organised grassroots movement, citizens may struggle to take meaningful action.

It’s essential to recognise that these factors are not mutually exclusive, and often multiple factors may be at play in a given community.

Protesting and taking action in response to violence or killings can be challenging, and there is no one-sizefits- all solution. Overcoming these barriers often requires a combination of community organising, education, outreach and support from outside organisations or advocates.

Orson Rogers Belmont