color pencil, graphite; 20×16″ 
“You struggle for breath, your chest motionless despite desperate attempts to inhale. The officer above locks eyes with you, his knee pressing firmly against your throat as you call out for your mother, yearning to return home. You dream of waking up free from the weight of that night’s events—a dream shared by many, including George Floyd, who tragically did not survive. My artwork reflects the struggles faced not only by Black individuals but by all who experience discrimination. Set against a stark black background, it features a head bearing the haunting phrase “”I CAN’T BREATHE,”” with lungs bound by chains and cinder blocks. Surrounding this imagery are red and blue orbs, symbolizing police sirens, which serve as a reminder of the pervasive threat of violence. Created using colored pencils and graphite, the piece embodies the pain and resilience of those enduring oppression. The impact of police brutality is profound, affecting not just individuals but society as a whole, especially as a Black male. It is essential for us to unite as a community to confront and address these pressing issues, fostering understanding and working toward a future where everyone can breathe freely and live without fear.”
ARTIST BIO: Reece THOMAS is a grade 11 student at Butler Tech School of Art studying art under art teacher Mary Catherine Ruby.