The Black Lives Matter movement is losing one of its key leaders, Twin Cities Pioneer Press reports.

According to the media outlet, Rashad Turner became uncomfortable with his affiliation with the movement when its leadership issued a call to end charter schools. It did so this summer amid claims that charter schools perpetuate unequal federal funding and racial disparities.

Turner was with Black Lives Matter St. Paul for about a year and a half. The group began to attract attention last year after assisting in the orchestration of the “Black Fair” protest that briefly shut down access to the Minnesota State Fair.

Turner said the rise of social justice groups helped put his mind at ease about his decision.

“It definitely made me more comfortable,” he said. “Anytime you put your heart and soul into something, it’s hard to leave it, but definitely, other groups have stepped up, so I’m comfortable with where things are at.”

He also credits Black Lives Matter for setting the tone for other movements to form.

“The thing I’m most proud of is how we’ve set the tone,” he said. “We got people involved and engaged enough to the point where they’re ready to take action. A lot of groups have started up in this past year and they’re ready to start making changes.”

Photo: Associated Press Images