March 15 is recognized as the International Day Against Police Brutality, a day of solidarity, remembrance, and resistance that highlights the harms caused by police violence and the communities most impacted by it. First observed in 1997, following calls from grassroots activists in Switzerland and Canada, the day has since been taken up by progressive movements around the world seeking accountability for law enforcement abuses and justice for those who have been harmed or killed by police. For civil liberties advocates, the day serves as an opportunity to memorialize victims of police violence and reaffirm the importance of protecting the rights of community members and activists (especially those most at-risk). It is also a moment to spotlight ongoing struggles against state repression and to strengthen collective efforts to defend our civil liberties.

For CLDC, the day is personal. Our legal team works directly with survivors whose lives were upended by officers who often face little to no accountability, until CLDC steps in. The following cases define that reality.

In 2020, Springfield, Oregon, police colluded with racist, violent extremists to injure and intimidate community members who were rallying during a Black Unity march. Police were punching young women and mothers with closed fists to the head, and breaking others’ bones during what was supposed to be a peaceful protest. The court ruled overwhelmingly in favor of the plaintiffs in this matter, allowing all claims to move forward to trial, including “Monell” liability claims, holding the City of Springfield is accountable for its systemic failure to train officers to act lawfully. CLDC lawyers will continue to represent the Black Unity clients as this case heads to trial.

“That was a night I will never forget. These weren’t vicious protestors, they were mothers, teenagers, fathers, veterans, and first responders.” – S.H., Black Unity member

During the height of the #NoDAPL movement in 2017, Water Protectors were caught in the crosshairs of extreme law enforcement violence at Standing Rock. Sophia Wilansky, 21 at the time, came to the Oceti Sakowin camp in solidarity with the Indigenous-led movement to stop the pipeline. While Sophia was trying to leave the Backwater Bridge, Officer Jonathan Moll fired an explosive flash-bang round directly at her, nearly destroying her arm. His fellow officers laughed and congratulated his “marksmanship.” A federal judge dismissed her excessive force lawsuit in 2024, citing qualified immunity. CLDC and Sophia await a decision from the appeals court after a strong oral argument in December 2025.

“I’m leaving. Please don’t shoot.” – Sophia Wilansky, moments before being shot

Eric Poemoceah, a Comanche videographer and Water Protector, attempted to peacefully negotiate the exit of elders from the Oceti Sakowin encampment. Law enforcement responded with an unprovoked attack that broke his pelvis. Officers then forced him to walk hundreds of feet to a police vehicle. CLDC continues to represent Eric today, as the case finally heads towards trial.

“I know you have a job to do and a family to provide for, but why do it with protecting oil? That’s all we’re trying to do — protect the water. You have a heart. You have a soul. Why don’t you be honorable and set down your badge right now?” – Eric Poemoceah, to law enforcement before the attack

These cases – and people – are not abstractions. They are the lived reality of what happens when the state turns its power against the people it is meant to serve. This type of violence happens every day in communities across the nation, and around the world. We see it happening more and more every day with the onslaught of untrained, violent, racist ICE/CBP/DHS officers since Trump 2.0. On this, and every International Day Against Police Brutality, we stand with every person who has faced off with an armed and armored-up law enforcement officer, and who has experienced their violence first hand. We recommit to fighting for their rights in courtroom and beyond.

We’ve got your back, until all are free!