Voices of Protest Testimony Project
Media & Videos
A word from Rigodis Appling
Rigodis Appling is one of the attorneys behind the landmark NYPD Protest Settlement, helping explain what the agreement means and why it matters for every New Yorker. After the 2020 protests, where many people were kettled, beaten, or arrested for exercising their constitutional rights, communities organized, testified, and demanded accountability. As a result, the NYPD must now prioritize de-escalation, sharply restrict kettling, and submit protest responses to senior oversight and independent review. For Rigodis, the settlement shows what’s possible when movements keep pushing—and why enforcement will be just as critical as policy.
A word from Jarrett Payne
Jarrett Payne participated in the 2020 protests out of a deep commitment to accountability, transparency, and the right to be seen and heard. What stays with him most is the energy of the crowd, the chants, the urgency, and the shift in atmosphere as police presence intensified.The law enforcement response that day revealed how differently safety can be defined depending on who holds power. For Jarrett, sharing his story is about accountability and ensuring that what happened during those protests is not repeated.
A word from Micaela Martinez
Micaela Martinez’s courage and clarity have shaped this work from day one. Her voice reminds us why documenting what happens at protests isn’t optional, it’s necessary.
The settlement set new guardrails on NYPD responses. Our platform breaks down what changed, what to expect, and how community members like Micaela are helping drive real accountability.
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