Ferguson wasn’t about race so much as it was about an obtuse and overbearing response that demonstrated a government which in broad strokes and vivid colors told citizens they will militarily respond, training weapons against a “foreign peoples”.
Using MRAPS and other military equipment against ferguson informed Americans they are mere prolitariats just who is in charge.
Geared up like they were an occupying force, training war weapons and scoped rifles meant for killing at 1,000 yards was offensive to most Americans.
It was apparent the men doing this were former military and use to engaging enemies in a manner suited for war.
There was no community interaction to ascertain who was leading this protest and set the terms of allowable behavior.
Further, shooting rubber bullets and tossing gas canisters directly at the feet of reporters was beyond simple policing.
Then arresting reporters in a business, who apparently gave permission for them to charge their equipment “behind the register line” and knocking their heads against a soda Fontain and again against a door jam was not acceptable behaviour.
Oh but, that’s okay because the officer apologized, though sarcastically.
Giving LEO’s war weapons, equipment and an imprimatur to behave as if they are at war isn’t something we should tolerate nor go unanswered without repercussions.
However, sovereign immunity gives them free reign to act not as policemen but, reinforces a collective attitude they can do as they wish “for the greater good”.
Were there blacks involved? Well, yes.
However, they are still Americans and should be treat as such.
were they rioting? Uhmm yeah and a show of force should have been present.
We can’t allow men with badges to act without restraint.
they are there to protect and serve, not play with their war toys.
This incident should be studied and investigated, with an untrammeled eye that seeks a more appropriate response, behavior and action for future events.
(Flame suit on)
Post number 46 would change your mind in a hurry. SARC.
TWO black young men were walking in the street when the police told them to move aside.
One, moved... he’s alive today.
One ran, then turned and charged the police. He’s dead.
From this? We’re supposed to assume the police are evil and America is inherently racist?
I don’t think so... although, events like this make me MORE racist than I thought I could be.