Ask An Intern: Why Do You Use TurnSignl?
This month, TurnSignl asked a few of our summer interns to share their experiences with us as passionate members of our community. Each of them has a unique perspective on the future for social justice, and what they need to feel safe and empowered.
Here’s what they had to say:
Mykal Howard
TurnSignl Intern
University of St. Thomas
Tell Us Why You Chose TurnSignl
In April of this year, Daunte Wright was killed by the police during a traffic stop. Soon after, I had the opportunity to work at TurnSignl and it felt like destiny for many reasons.
I’d just finished a social justice class — with my first black professor at the University of St. Thomas — where we discussed the unequal expectations placed on people of color to avoid violent confrontation and remain respectful in situations with law enforcement, where the expectations for members of more privileged communities are not always the same.
Over the past year, in the wake of peaceful protests, marches, and eventual looting, a classmate of mine who was a close family friend of the Wright family made a statement that stuck with me: “How do you expect us to remain peaceful after all these years when still, nothing has changed?”
What Does The App Mean for You?
As a biracial man, I understand the challenge of trying to be someone you’re not for the approval of others, especially in situations with law enforcement. All my experiences with police have put me in the position of proving that I deserve to be treated fairly.
For me, an app like TurnSignl is a perfect way to change that and feel more safe during those interactions.
The TurnSignl mission appealed to me because it’s not anti-police, it’s pro-safety for everyone. To bridge the gap between drivers and law enforcement, there has to be equal respect for the driver and for the officer.
Having an attorney there to help people understand their rights allows residents to live their lives to the fullest, without fear of being oppressed for what they look like or who they are.
Sheng Thao
TurnSignl Intern
Hamline University
Tell Us Why You Chose TurnSignl
My story is similar to every child of immigrant parents. My parents came to the United States as refugees from Thailand, seeking a better life and different political leadership.
However, even today the Asian community continues to fight for justice and equity in America, as rallies have broken out to protest a Hmong man shot by police during the recent Lava Fire evacuation.
The truth is that injustice towards people of color due to their race and ethnicity is connected to every chapter of their life. My dad often uses the phrase “Txhob cia lawv hais tau koj” which means “Never let them know your weakness,” and I understand his meaning even more as I get older.
For me, the opportunity to work at TurnSignl was a chance to be part of a movement for change.
What Does The App Mean for You?
Stories of racism, discrimination, and social profiling by the police are not new to me. As a member of an immigrant family, my parents, siblings, relatives, and friends have experienced firsthand the fear of being pulled over, or just being unsure of their rights. I share that fear.
I feel like TurnSignl builds a bridge between us and law enforcement, and that makes everyone safer.
TurnSignl was created with the mission to de-escalate roadside interactions and to get everyone home safely. This is especially true for people of color, other minorities, and individuals who may not know their rights.
Let’s stop the anxiety of being pulled over and oppressed for our skin color, and be empowered to live without fear.
The Future of Safe Driving With TurnSignl
At TurnSignl, we are proud to be a force for positive change. Every member of our team stands behind our mission and shares this passion.
If you are interested in trying our app for yourself, we are currently available in Minnesota and are expanding nationwide.
