A decade ago, much of the nation and world watched as protestors took to the streets to fight for justice for 18-year-old Michael Brown who was killed on August 9, 2014 by Ferguson police.
A special television presentation, “13 Days in Ferguson,” recounts those days following the fatal killing of Brown and reveals the rawness of emotions after the teen’s death, which not only sparked protests, but conversations about police reform and working toward true freedom and justice for all.
For the actor, comedian and executive producer, what is depicted in this one-hour special is personal because his long-time friend and fraternity brother, Captain Ron Johnson of the Missouri Highway Patrol, was put in charge of the law enforcement groups charged with keeping the peace. Further, Cedric and Johnson grew up in the area, so the trials in Ferguson, literally hit home.
This television special is based on Johnson’s book of the same title, which he wrote in 2018. In “13 Days in Ferguson,” Cedric and Johnson revisit key places and recall how confrontations between protesters and police escalated in ways that continued devastating the city and caught the attention of the White House.
Johnson made tough decisions during a 13-day period while being undermined by decisions made above him. Little by little, Johnson makes inroads in his communication with Brown’s family and citizens in Ferguson.
“It’s gonna take years, and this cannot continue to be our truth,” said Johnson about the trauma that impacted Ferguson.
“13 Days in Ferguson” airs on the CBS Television Network on Aug. 9 at 10:00 p.m. ET.
It will also stream on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)
I watched the documentary tonight with mixed emotions! I don’t understand WHY police training has not changed. Folk can say what they want, but black people are STILL getting shot by police and police are STILL getting away with it!!
I have so much admiration for Ron Johnson. If anybody has issue with him, You are the problem!! Ron Johnson is a national treasure! And, my condolences are with the family of Michael Brown. Hopefully, one day, the perpetrator will be held accountable.