including the current stats from the police department in St. Louis.
Well, stats can prove lots of things. What does it mean when a group that is 12% of the population commits over 50% of homicides for instance? Does it prove that they are all violent criminals or all victims?
I think of Josie (MRs Jones), the most reasonable of posters, talking about how her son(s) have been taught to ALWAYS kow tow to the police, because, even thought they are GOOD CITIZENS, they may be profiled, and fuck, man, KILLEd because of some yahoo cop who fears people of colour.
Really? Can you show cases where the cops have stopped a car and just shot kids for being black? When we're stopped we know to be respectful and polite to the police because it's common sense, nothing to do with race. They are just doing their difficult job, no need to take it personally. Wouldn't it be better to teach kids to just be polite and respectful to everyone all the time?
I remember the "I was followed in a store when carrying an iPad, it must be bacause I am black". So when I'm followed and watched after picking up an iPad is it because I am white? No, guess what - it's because you have a small but expensive piece of the stores stock that they don't want stolen. It's only about your color if you belive it is unless you have proof otherwise and "how I see it" is not proof.
Was this man responsible for his own demise? In my opinion, he acted foolishly, and violently, and for that he was killed. I can understand the police officer's fear and automatic response to his life being threatened by a BIG MAN who, apparently, had no intent of being law-abiding. The cop was probably in fear of his life, and followed his training. I don't think the police officer did anything 'wrong' ........... other than responding to a thread to his personal safety, in the only way he could, in the situation.
So at least the evidence has convinced you and we won't get this case waved around as proof of something that it isn't.
I don't like cops, in general, but it's hard to see this situation in a favorable light with regards to Mr. Brown.
Hmmnn, judging people because of their appearance ... that reminds me of something ... but what ...
So if you don't like cops because "some cop once did something bad" is that any different to someone else not liking blacks because "some black guy robbed me once"? Are you for judging people based on appearance or aren't you? When you group all cops as one you are doing exactly what you criticise other for doing.
Simon, you are originally British - doesn't classism offend you? Surprised. (and not sarcastically, just really).
I can be offended and voice my opinion against something, even vote to have things abolished and see gradual change happening. Do I need to riot and loot or march around shouting? Not sure that would accomplish anything right now because there are no laws that need to be changed by conflict.
