What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
Semi plows through crowd protesting in Minneapolis
The driver of a tanker truck is in custody after he plowed his tractor-trailer into a crowd of protesters on a Minnesota highway.
Gov. Tim Waltz quoted reports saying multiple protesters were treated for injuries after the truck barreled through protesters on I-35W, which was closed to vehicular traffic.
"A horrifying image on our television -- a semi ... with a flammable or toxic substance going full force into a crowd of peaceful protesters," Walz said.
Authorities said they don't yet know the driver's motives.
Not today Sir, Probably not tomorrow.............................................. bayfront arena st. pete '94
you're finally here and I'm a mess................................................... nationwide arena columbus '10
memories like fingerprints are slowly raising.................................... first niagara center buffalo '13
another man ..... moved by sleight of hand...................................... joe louis arena detroit '14
What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
It could be worse. Could be a PE “teacher.”
It's so weird to me when people on the forum bring up my profession. Is that a defense mechanism? I honestly don't give a shit what everyone does for a living. Like if you are a garbagemen is your opinion less important? Should we all post our educational credentials moving forward?
We are all just amateur social media Influencers on this board.
I look out my window and see about 20 police officers. About as safe as one could be. The curfew would be more eerie if we weren’t already used to it with stay at home Covid orders
Saw a crowd chanting “hands up don’t shoot” on TV. Made me wonder, why are they chanting that? Are they aware that was determined to not happen, and didn’t even the witness who first stated that recant his statement? Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
At least the protesters at City Hall are actually protesting at the moment. The ones west of us today and right now are continuing to steal from, spray paint and set fire to various businesses.
I think we’ll go back to watching The Walking Dead
After dark it doesn’t look like any protestors are out. Majority of people out late at night look like they’re having fun, been stuck inside too long as glad to be out, taking selfies and having a good time, or are looting stores. No message or unity, either there to have fun or steal stuff.
During the day looks like a different story, but that’s what it looks like at night to me.
Saw a crowd chanting “hands up don’t shoot” on TV. Made me wonder, why are they chanting that? Are they aware that was determined to not happen, and didn’t even the witness who first stated that recant his statement? Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
Ever had to put your hands out the car window after being pulled over, mace? Ever had a cop ask you to keep your hands where they can see them? Is this really what you're focused on now, at this place and time? And does it really matter? I guess no black people have ever been shot dead before they even had a chance to "show their hands?" What is wrong with you? And as is typical, you don't reference what was not "determined to have happened." Who was the witness, mace, in your reference? And how many were there that were interviewed? Asking for someone who can't ask.
Saw a crowd chanting “hands up don’t shoot” on TV. Made me wonder, why are they chanting that? Are they aware that was determined to not happen, and didn’t even the witness who first stated that recant his statement? Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
Ever had to put your hands out the car window after being pulled over, mace? Ever had a cop ask you to keep your hands where they can see them? Is this really what you're focused on now, at this place and time? And does it really matter? I guess no black people have ever been shot dead before they even had a chance to "show their hands?" What is wrong with you? And as is typical, you don't reference what was not "determined to have happened." Who was the witness, mace, in your reference? And how many were there that were interviewed? Asking for someone who can't ask.
Not what I’m focused on, havn’t really thought about it since I posted it. But the AG Eric Holder’s investigation is what determined that, that racist SOB.
I haven’t heard that phrase in any recent protest, Was curious if people don’t believe the AG’s investigation and believe that did happen with Michael Brown or if there’s another reason. Fee free not to respond if you don’t have an answer to a question.
Saw a crowd chanting “hands up don’t shoot” on TV. Made me wonder, why are they chanting that? Are they aware that was determined to not happen, and didn’t even the witness who first stated that recant his statement? Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
Ever had to put your hands out the car window after being pulled over, mace? Ever had a cop ask you to keep your hands where they can see them? Is this really what you're focused on now, at this place and time? And does it really matter? I guess no black people have ever been shot dead before they even had a chance to "show their hands?" What is wrong with you? And as is typical, you don't reference what was not "determined to have happened." Who was the witness, mace, in your reference? And how many were there that were interviewed? Asking for someone who can't ask.
Not what I’m focused on, havn’t really thought about it since I posted it. But the AG Eric Holder’s investigation is what determined that, that racist SOB.
I haven’t heard that phrase in any recent protest, Was curious if people don’t believe the AG’s investigation and believe that did happen with Michael Brown or if there’s another reason. Fee free not to respond if you don’t have an answer to a question.
Your original question lacked detail. Your statements supposed and surmised. I’ll ask you a question that’s relevant to making my point, do you believe Tara Reade?
But you made the effort to posit something lacking context and detail because you “haven’t really thought about it since posting it.” Trolling? Brain fart? Throwing shit out there to see what sticks? Or lacking critical thought in the context of our times?
Was it proven that Michael Brown didn’t have his hands up when he was shot to death? Again, asking for somebody who can’t ask.
What was the question again, mace? I’m a little slow (because there’s four of them).
25% of Boston is suppose to open up tomorrow, many business’s will be short of inventory after tonight’s shit show...at least the plywood business will do well in the coming days...
Saw a crowd chanting “hands up don’t shoot” on TV. Made me wonder, why are they chanting that? Are they aware that was determined to not happen, and didn’t even the witness who first stated that recant his statement? Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
Ever had to put your hands out the car window after being pulled over, mace? Ever had a cop ask you to keep your hands where they can see them? Is this really what you're focused on now, at this place and time? And does it really matter? I guess no black people have ever been shot dead before they even had a chance to "show their hands?" What is wrong with you? And as is typical, you don't reference what was not "determined to have happened." Who was the witness, mace, in your reference? And how many were there that were interviewed? Asking for someone who can't ask.
Not what I’m focused on, havn’t really thought about it since I posted it. But the AG Eric Holder’s investigation is what determined that, that racist SOB.
I haven’t heard that phrase in any recent protest, Was curious if people don’t believe the AG’s investigation and believe that did happen with Michael Brown or if there’s another reason. Fee free not to respond if you don’t have an answer to a question.
Your original question lacked detail. Your statements supposed and surmised. I’ll ask you a question that’s relevant to making my point, do you believe Tara Reade?
But you made the effort to posit something lacking context and detail because you “haven’t really thought about it since posting it.” Trolling? Brain fart? Throwing shit out there to see what sticks? Or lacking critical thought in the context of our times?
Was it proven that Michael Brown didn’t have his hands up when he was shot to death? Again, asking for somebody who can’t ask.
What was the question again, mace? I’m a little slow (because there’s four of them).
Not sure where your going with the whole being slow thing, but whatever.
So I’m not allowed to see something on TV and have a thought about it? It just struck me as unusual, since that rally cry had essentially been proven false. Not trolling, maybe there is a real reason I’m aware of. Maybe it’s been said all along and I never picked up on it before. Maybe the BLM movement never accepting Eric Holder’s findings. I don’t know, that’s why I asked.
I don’t know if I believe Tara. Was very long ago and I doubt anyone will know what happened. It’s possible it happened, it’s possible it was made up, it’s possible it was some flirting to plant the seed and it’s evolved in her mind over 25 years. Some parts of her story seem strange, like her continued support for Biden after. But some claim she spoke about it long ago. So I don’t know. Not sure what that has to do with white privilege.
Saw a crowd chanting “hands up don’t shoot” on TV. Made me wonder, why are they chanting that? Are they aware that was determined to not happen, and didn’t even the witness who first stated that recant his statement? Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
I guess you forgot about Charles Kinsey? "I can't breathe" "Hands up don't shoot" "Rough rides" "It's just my wallet" These events aren't one-off occurrences even if you only see the biggest headlines. It's everyday life for black people in America.
What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
It could be worse. Could be a PE “teacher.”
It's so weird to me when people on the forum bring up my profession. Is that a defense mechanism? I honestly don't give a shit what everyone does for a living. Like if you are a garbagemen is your opinion less important? Should we all post our educational credentials moving forward?
You’ve mentioned that you’re a teacher 80 times in the last year and you are quite defensive about it. You’ve made sure everyone knows you’re a teacher and I respect teachers more than you’ll ever know....I was a school administrator. i couldn’t have taught, like doctors, nurses - it takes special people to do these jobs. Don’t blame us for your constant reminders about you being a teacher. If you do that because you’re proud of it, well that’s ok, you should be proud. And all peoples opinions matter.
What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
It could be worse. Could be a PE “teacher.”
It's so weird to me when people on the forum bring up my profession. Is that a defense mechanism? I honestly don't give a shit what everyone does for a living. Like if you are a garbagemen is your opinion less important? Should we all post our educational credentials moving forward?
You’ve mentioned that you’re a teacher 80 times in the last year and you are quite defensive about it. You’ve made sure everyone knows you’re a teacher and I respect teachers more than you’ll ever know....I was a school administrator. i couldn’t have taught, like doctors, nurses - it takes special people to do these jobs. Don’t blame us for your constant reminders about you being a teacher. If you do that because you’re proud of it, well that’s ok, you should be proud. And all peoples opinions matter.
Yet you brought me up being a teacher in this conversation for some reason. Very odd. “You’re just a teacher, you see all the fluff.”
What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
It could be worse. Could be a PE “teacher.”
It's so weird to me when people on the forum bring up my profession. Is that a defense mechanism? I honestly don't give a shit what everyone does for a living. Like if you are a garbagemen is your opinion less important? Should we all post our educational credentials moving forward?
You’ve mentioned that you’re a teacher 80 times in the last year and you are quite defensive about it. You’ve made sure everyone knows you’re a teacher and I respect teachers more than you’ll ever know....I was a school administrator. i couldn’t have taught, like doctors, nurses - it takes special people to do these jobs. Don’t blame us for your constant reminders about you being a teacher. If you do that because you’re proud of it, well that’s ok, you should be proud. And all peoples opinions matter.
Yet you brought me up being a teacher in this conversation for some reason. Very odd.
Holy crap!!! YOU brought up why PEOPLE (that means plural) always mention you’re a teacher and it’s because YOU always mention it! Maybe you shouldn’t be a teacher of young minds cause you’re the craziest teacher I’ve ever had a conversation with. LAST TIME - YOU ASKED THE QUESTION- you’re actually comical. I can’t believe I ever stuck up for you - that makes me the ass!
What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
It could be worse. Could be a PE “teacher.”
It's so weird to me when people on the forum bring up my profession. Is that a defense mechanism? I honestly don't give a shit what everyone does for a living. Like if you are a garbagemen is your opinion less important? Should we all post our educational credentials moving forward?
You’ve mentioned that you’re a teacher 80 times in the last year and you are quite defensive about it. You’ve made sure everyone knows you’re a teacher and I respect teachers more than you’ll ever know....I was a school administrator. i couldn’t have taught, like doctors, nurses - it takes special people to do these jobs. Don’t blame us for your constant reminders about you being a teacher. If you do that because you’re proud of it, well that’s ok, you should be proud. And all peoples opinions matter.
I've been chatting with mcgruff for quite some time now. When he brings up his being a teacher, I've noticed it's one of three reasons typically - to explain the perspective he comes from (sharing anecdotes others may not have access to), responding to others who very regularly try to bait a response out of him by saying "how can you as a teacher *insert thing here*", or in response to people belittling his credibility. For right or for wrong, if in the same position, I'd probably be arguing similarly to mcgruff.
'05 - TO, '06 - TO 1, '08 - NYC 1 & 2, '09 - TO, Chi 1 & 2, '10 - Buffalo, NYC 1 & 2, '11 - TO 1 & 2, Hamilton, '13 - Buffalo, Brooklyn 1 & 2, '15 - Global Citizen, '16 - TO 1 & 2, Chi 2
EV
Toronto Film Festival 9/11/2007, '08 - Toronto 1 & 2, '09 - Albany 1, '11 - Chicago 1
What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
It could be worse. Could be a PE “teacher.”
It's so weird to me when people on the forum bring up my profession. Is that a defense mechanism? I honestly don't give a shit what everyone does for a living. Like if you are a garbagemen is your opinion less important? Should we all post our educational credentials moving forward?
You’ve mentioned that you’re a teacher 80 times in the last year and you are quite defensive about it. You’ve made sure everyone knows you’re a teacher and I respect teachers more than you’ll ever know....I was a school administrator. i couldn’t have taught, like doctors, nurses - it takes special people to do these jobs. Don’t blame us for your constant reminders about you being a teacher. If you do that because you’re proud of it, well that’s ok, you should be proud. And all peoples opinions matter.
Yet you brought me up being a teacher in this conversation for some reason. Very odd.
Holy crap!!! YOU brought up why PEOPLE (that means plural) always mention you’re a teacher and it’s because YOU always mention it! Maybe you shouldn’t be a teacher of young minds cause you’re the craziest teacher I’ve ever had a conversation with. LAST TIME - YOU ASKED THE QUESTION- you’re actually comical. I can’t believe I ever stuck up for you - that makes me the ass!
My profession was brought up in this thread for the first time by you. (And again I have no clue why it pertains to this conversation.) Are you ok? Do you not remember what you wrote? That’s right, it’s EXACTLY how I feel, you’re just a teacher, you see all the fluff. Walk in these peoples shoes or among them for years and years and years and you may feel differently. You have no knowledge of what being a black person in America is like...at least I’ve been consistent in my opinions. So you had another payment taken out for Sea, Hear, Now yet you stated you live ten minutes away and wouldn’t dare attend. What a hypocrite you are
Dial it back a bit maybe. There's only one person clearly attacking another personally and it won't end well for you if you want to keep posting. Disagree with people all you want, but quit belittling them and their profession.
What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
It could be worse. Could be a PE “teacher.”
It's so weird to me when people on the forum bring up my profession. Is that a defense mechanism? I honestly don't give a shit what everyone does for a living. Like if you are a garbagemen is your opinion less important? Should we all post our educational credentials moving forward?
You’ve mentioned that you’re a teacher 80 times in the last year and you are quite defensive about it. You’ve made sure everyone knows you’re a teacher and I respect teachers more than you’ll ever know....I was a school administrator. i couldn’t have taught, like doctors, nurses - it takes special people to do these jobs. Don’t blame us for your constant reminders about you being a teacher. If you do that because you’re proud of it, well that’s ok, you should be proud. And all peoples opinions matter.
I don't usually get into the spats of others,but...my god I hope you just threw out a guess and don't actually know the count.
1995 Milwaukee 1998 Alpine, Alpine 2003 Albany, Boston, Boston, Boston 2004 Boston, Boston 2006 Hartford, St. Paul (Petty), St. Paul (Petty) 2011 Alpine, Alpine 2013 Wrigley 2014 St. Paul 2016 Fenway, Fenway, Wrigley, Wrigley 2018 Missoula, Wrigley, Wrigley 2021 Asbury Park 2022 St Louis 2023 Austin, Austin
What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
It could be worse. Could be a PE “teacher.”
It's so weird to me when people on the forum bring up my profession. Is that a defense mechanism? I honestly don't give a shit what everyone does for a living. Like if you are a garbagemen is your opinion less important? Should we all post our educational credentials moving forward?
You’ve mentioned that you’re a teacher 80 times in the last year and you are quite defensive about it. You’ve made sure everyone knows you’re a teacher and I respect teachers more than you’ll ever know....I was a school administrator. i couldn’t have taught, like doctors, nurses - it takes special people to do these jobs. Don’t blame us for your constant reminders about you being a teacher. If you do that because you’re proud of it, well that’s ok, you should be proud. And all peoples opinions matter.
I don't usually get into the spats of others,but...my god I hope you just threw out a guess and don't actually know the count.
I'd say about half this dudes posts have come in the last week.
he or she may have been lurking here all this time(they joined in 2011) and kinda know us and where we stand generally(sorta doubt that though), while there has been no introduction of them.
Not today Sir, Probably not tomorrow.............................................. bayfront arena st. pete '94
you're finally here and I'm a mess................................................... nationwide arena columbus '10
memories like fingerprints are slowly raising.................................... first niagara center buffalo '13
another man ..... moved by sleight of hand...................................... joe louis arena detroit '14
Saw a crowd chanting “hands up don’t shoot” on TV. Made me wonder, why are they chanting that? Are they aware that was determined to not happen, and didn’t even the witness who first stated that recant his statement? Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
I guess you forgot about Charles Kinsey? "I can't breathe" "Hands up don't shoot" "Rough rides" "It's just my wallet" These events aren't one-off occurrences even if you only see the biggest headlines. It's everyday life for black people in America.
No, I only asked about 1 chant. It has nothing to with the others you listed. What I mean is each one was sparked by and refers to a specific incident.
I understand the events aren’t one-off. But does Hands up don’t shoot not refer specially to MB?
I was refreshed on the case of Charles the other day when I read an article. I remembered him, had forgotten some of the details. The cop who shot him wasn’t shooting at Charles. It was thought his autistic patient had a gun and was holding him hostage. The cop fired 3 times at the patient from 50 yards away, missing all 3 times and hitting Charles in the leg.
Charles is a hero for putting his life on the line to save another. The cop was charged and convicted with negligence. That seems like the right call to me, at least I don’t know enough information to say 12 people who sat through weeks of testimony and trial got it wrong.
I don’t think Charles is ever thought to have said “hands up don’t shoot.” So that chant directly relates to MB and the false witness testimony, does it not? That’s what I think of every time I hear it. I think of Eric Garner and now Floyd when I hear “I can’t breath”
Saw a crowd chanting “hands up don’t shoot” on TV. Made me wonder, why are they chanting that? Are they aware that was determined to not happen, and didn’t even the witness who first stated that recant his statement? Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
I guess you forgot about Charles Kinsey? "I can't breathe" "Hands up don't shoot" "Rough rides" "It's just my wallet" These events aren't one-off occurrences even if you only see the biggest headlines. It's everyday life for black people in America.
No, I only asked about 1 chant. It has nothing to with the others you listed. Now I’m remembering why I avoid trying to have a simple conversation here.
I understand the events aren’t one-off. But does Hands up don’t shoot not refer specially to MB?
Well, maybe it did a few years ago, but BLM has grown a considerable amount since Michael Brown.
Saw a crowd chanting “hands up don’t shoot” on TV. Made me wonder, why are they chanting that? Are they aware that was determined to not happen, and didn’t even the witness who first stated that recant his statement? Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
I guess you forgot about Charles Kinsey? "I can't breathe" "Hands up don't shoot" "Rough rides" "It's just my wallet" These events aren't one-off occurrences even if you only see the biggest headlines. It's everyday life for black people in America.
No, I only asked about 1 chant. It has nothing to with the others you listed. Now I’m remembering why I avoid trying to have a simple conversation here.
BLM accepts the findings of Holder's investigation into the Michael Brown case, but the fact that it didn't happen in Ferguson doesn't negate that it's still a powerful and valid chant for shining a light on the black experience with police.
Barack Obama posted this today on Facebook. If only our dear leader could put words together like this:
As millions of people across the country take to the streets and raise their voices in response to the killing of George Floyd and the ongoing problem of unequal justice, many people have reached out asking how we can sustain momentum to bring about real change.
Ultimately, it’s going to be up to a new generation of activists to shape strategies that best fit the times. But I believe there are some basic lessons to draw from past efforts that are worth remembering.
First, the waves of protests across the country represent a genuine and legitimate frustration over a decades-long failure to reform police practices and the broader criminal justice system in the United States. The overwhelming majority of participants have been peaceful, courageous, responsible, and inspiring. They deserve our respect and support, not condemnation – something that police in cities like Camden and Flint have commendably understood.
On the other hand, the small minority of folks who’ve resorted to violence in various forms, whether out of genuine anger or mere opportunism, are putting innocent people at risk, compounding the destruction of neighborhoods that are often already short on services and investment and detracting from the larger cause. I saw an elderly black woman being interviewed today in tears because the only grocery store in her neighborhood had been trashed. If history is any guide, that store may take years to come back. So let’s not excuse violence, or rationalize it, or participate in it. If we want our criminal justice system, and American society at large, to operate on a higher ethical code, then we have to model that code ourselves.
Second, I’ve heard some suggest that the recurrent problem of racial bias in our criminal justice system proves that only protests and direct action can bring about change, and that voting and participation in electoral politics is a waste of time. I couldn’t disagree more. The point of protest is to raise public awareness, to put a spotlight on injustice, and to make the powers that be uncomfortable; in fact, throughout American history, it’s often only been in response to protests and civil disobedience that the political system has even paid attention to marginalized communities. But eventually, aspirations have to be translated into specific laws and institutional practices – and in a democracy, that only happens when we elect government officials who are responsive to our demands.
Moreover, it’s important for us to understand which levels of government have the biggest impact on our criminal justice system and police practices. When we think about politics, a lot of us focus only on the presidency and the federal government. And yes, we should be fighting to make sure that we have a president, a Congress, a U.S. Justice Department, and a federal judiciary that actually recognize the ongoing, corrosive role that racism plays in our society and want to do something about it. But the elected officials who matter most in reforming police departments and the criminal justice system work at the state and local levels.
It’s mayors and county executives that appoint most police chiefs and negotiate collective bargaining agreements with police unions. It’s district attorneys and state’s attorneys that decide whether or not to investigate and ultimately charge those involved in police misconduct. Those are all elected positions. In some places, police review boards with the power to monitor police conduct are elected as well. Unfortunately, voter turnout in these local races is usually pitifully low, especially among young people – which makes no sense given the direct impact these offices have on social justice issues, not to mention the fact that who wins and who loses those seats is often determined by just a few thousand, or even a few hundred, votes.
So the bottom line is this: if we want to bring about real change, then the choice isn’t between protest and politics. We have to do both. We have to mobilize to raise awareness, and we have to organize and cast our ballots to make sure that we elect candidates who will act on reform.
Finally, the more specific we can make demands for criminal justice and police reform, the harder it will be for elected officials to just offer lip service to the cause and then fall back into business as usual once protests have gone away. The content of that reform agenda will be different for various communities. A big city may need one set of reforms; a rural community may need another. Some agencies will require wholesale rehabilitation; others should make minor improvements. Every law enforcement agency should have clear policies, including an independent body that conducts investigations of alleged misconduct. Tailoring reforms for each community will require local activists and organizations to do their research and educate fellow citizens in their community on what strategies work best.
But as a starting point, I’ve included two links below. One leads to a report and toolkit developed by the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights and based on the work of the Task Force on 21st Century Policing that I formed when I was in the White House. And if you’re interested in taking concrete action, we’ve also created a dedicated site at the Obama Foundation to aggregate and direct you to useful resources and organizations who’ve been fighting the good fight at the local and national levels for years.
I recognize that these past few months have been hard and dispiriting – that the fear, sorrow, uncertainty, and hardship of a pandemic have been compounded by tragic reminders that prejudice and inequality still shape so much of American life. But watching the heightened activism of young people in recent weeks, of every race and every station, makes me hopeful. If, going forward, we can channel our justifiable anger into peaceful, sustained, and effective action, then this moment can be a real turning point in our nation’s long journey to live up to our highest ideals.
Saw a crowd chanting “hands up don’t shoot” on TV. Made me wonder, why are they chanting that? Are they aware that was determined to not happen, and didn’t even the witness who first stated that recant his statement? Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
I guess you forgot about Charles Kinsey? "I can't breathe" "Hands up don't shoot" "Rough rides" "It's just my wallet" These events aren't one-off occurrences even if you only see the biggest headlines. It's everyday life for black people in America.
No, I only asked about 1 chant. It has nothing to with the others you listed. Now I’m remembering why I avoid trying to have a simple conversation here.
I understand the events aren’t one-off. But does Hands up don’t shoot not refer specially to MB?
Well, maybe it did a few years ago, but BLM has grown a considerable amount since Michael Brown.
What I want to say to you after some of your posts takes us back to square one. I have NO desire to correspond with you and I certainly owe you no explanations.
I know I'm just a teacher but i would like to know why you think it is ok to advocate for violence towards the police and what positive change such an action could have. Again just a teacher trying to navigate my way through the fluff. Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
It could be worse. Could be a PE “teacher.”
It's so weird to me when people on the forum bring up my profession. Is that a defense mechanism? I honestly don't give a shit what everyone does for a living. Like if you are a garbagemen is your opinion less important? Should we all post our educational credentials moving forward?
You’ve mentioned that you’re a teacher 80 times in the last year and you are quite defensive about it. You’ve made sure everyone knows you’re a teacher and I respect teachers more than you’ll ever know....I was a school administrator. i couldn’t have taught, like doctors, nurses - it takes special people to do these jobs. Don’t blame us for your constant reminders about you being a teacher. If you do that because you’re proud of it, well that’s ok, you should be proud. And all peoples opinions matter.
I've been chatting with mcgruff for quite some time now. When he brings up his being a teacher, I've noticed it's one of three reasons typically - to explain the perspective he comes from (sharing anecdotes others may not have access to), responding to others who very regularly try to bait a response out of him by saying "how can you as a teacher *insert thing here*", or in response to people belittling his credibility. For right or for wrong, if in the same position, I'd probably be arguing similarly to mcgruff.
Mcgruff possesses symptoms of “Male Teacher Stigma”. I worked with our superintendent implementing and obtaining state and federal grant money to address the syndrome in our district. You know, well he’ll understand the “academic” vocabulary, seminars, round tables, exercises, and even building into the district curriculum, making sure our male students feel worthy in their future career and life choices, how to be comfortable in your own skin. It’s a real thing and the majority of male teachers, too few unfortunately, and students found our program extremely helpful. If his district doesn’t have counselors or a program in place he should speak with his superintendent or immediate supervisor, department lead, even his union rep. Ive found him to be extremely insightful, knowledgeable, and helpful regarding his teaching experiences. We are having a disagreement right now in a place that we are told is not a chat room. As far as I’m concerned the spar is over. Honestly I probably have more in common with him than most of you. If I was going to be an asshole or troll (which I don’t even know what that means I’m so social networking challenged) don’t you think I would have jumped on it sooner? I’m a woman by the way, not “dude” (I’ll address that comment soon).
Comments
Signed the guy always commenting on everything without even remembering what I said...just writing to participate with no critical recall.
The question, by the way, was genuine. Certainly your prerogative to spurn it.
Semi plows through crowd protesting in Minneapolis
The driver of a tanker truck is in custody after he plowed his tractor-trailer into a crowd of protesters on a Minnesota highway.
Gov. Tim Waltz quoted reports saying multiple protesters were treated for injuries after the truck barreled through protesters on I-35W, which was closed to vehicular traffic.
"A horrifying image on our television -- a semi ... with a flammable or toxic substance going full force into a crowd of peaceful protesters," Walz said.
Authorities said they don't yet know the driver's motives.
Not today Sir, Probably not tomorrow.............................................. bayfront arena st. pete '94
you're finally here and I'm a mess................................................... nationwide arena columbus '10
memories like fingerprints are slowly raising.................................... first niagara center buffalo '13
another man ..... moved by sleight of hand...................................... joe louis arena detroit '14
Does that mean they believe it was a cover up, do they not know that didn’t happen? Another reason?
Libtardaplorable©. And proud of it.
Brilliantati©
But the AG Eric Holder’s investigation is what determined that, that racist SOB.
I haven’t heard that phrase in any recent protest, Was curious if people don’t believe the AG’s investigation and believe that did happen with Michael Brown or if there’s another reason. Fee free not to respond if you don’t have an answer to a question.
But you made the effort to posit something lacking context and detail because you “haven’t really thought about it since posting it.” Trolling? Brain fart? Throwing shit out there to see what sticks? Or lacking critical thought in the context of our times?
Was it proven that Michael Brown didn’t have his hands up when he was shot to death? Again, asking for somebody who can’t ask.
What was the question again, mace? I’m a little slow (because there’s four of them).
Libtardaplorable©. And proud of it.
Brilliantati©
I don’t know if I believe Tara. Was very long ago and I doubt anyone will know what happened. It’s possible it happened, it’s possible it was made up, it’s possible it was some flirting to plant the seed and it’s evolved in her mind over 25 years. Some parts of her story seem strange, like her continued support for Biden after. But some claim she spoke about it long ago. So I don’t know. Not sure what that has to do with white privilege.
"I can't breathe"
"Hands up don't shoot"
"Rough rides"
"It's just my wallet"
These events aren't one-off occurrences even if you only see the biggest headlines. It's everyday life for black people in America.
i couldn’t have taught, like doctors, nurses - it takes special people to do these jobs. Don’t blame us for your constant reminders about you being a teacher. If you do that because you’re proud of it, well that’s ok, you should be proud.
And all peoples opinions matter.
“You’re just a teacher, you see all the fluff.”
Maybe you shouldn’t be a teacher of young minds cause you’re the craziest teacher I’ve ever had a conversation with.
LAST TIME - YOU ASKED THE QUESTION- you’re actually comical. I can’t believe I ever stuck up for you - that makes me the ass!
EV
Toronto Film Festival 9/11/2007, '08 - Toronto 1 & 2, '09 - Albany 1, '11 - Chicago 1
That’s right, it’s EXACTLY how I feel, you’re just a teacher, you see all the fluff. Walk in these peoples shoes or among them for years and years and years and you may feel differently. You have no knowledge of what being a black person in America is like...at least I’ve been consistent in my opinions. So you had another payment taken out for Sea, Hear, Now yet you stated you live ten minutes away and wouldn’t dare attend. What a hypocrite you are
BTW shouldn't you be teaching??
I don't usually get into the spats of others,but...my god I hope you just threw out a guess and don't actually know the count.
2013 Wrigley 2014 St. Paul 2016 Fenway, Fenway, Wrigley, Wrigley 2018 Missoula, Wrigley, Wrigley 2021 Asbury Park 2022 St Louis 2023 Austin, Austin
Not today Sir, Probably not tomorrow.............................................. bayfront arena st. pete '94
you're finally here and I'm a mess................................................... nationwide arena columbus '10
memories like fingerprints are slowly raising.................................... first niagara center buffalo '13
another man ..... moved by sleight of hand...................................... joe louis arena detroit '14
I was refreshed on the case of Charles the other day when I read an article. I remembered him, had forgotten some of the details. The cop who shot him wasn’t shooting at Charles. It was thought his autistic patient had a gun and was holding him hostage. The cop fired 3 times at the patient from 50 yards away, missing all 3 times and hitting Charles in the leg.
Charles is a hero for putting his life on the line to save another. The cop was charged and convicted with negligence. That seems like the right call to me, at least I don’t know enough information to say 12 people who sat through weeks of testimony and trial got it wrong.
I don’t think Charles is ever thought to have said “hands up don’t shoot.” So that chant directly relates to MB and the false witness testimony, does it not? That’s what I think of every time I hear it. I think of Eric Garner and now Floyd when I hear “I can’t breath”
Barack Obama posted this today on Facebook. If only our dear leader could put words together like this:
As millions of people across the country take to the streets and raise their voices in response to the killing of George Floyd and the ongoing problem of unequal justice, many people have reached out asking how we can sustain momentum to bring about real change.
Ultimately, it’s going to be up to a new generation of activists to shape strategies that best fit the times. But I believe there are some basic lessons to draw from past efforts that are worth remembering.
First, the waves of protests across the country represent a genuine and legitimate frustration over a decades-long failure to reform police practices and the broader criminal justice system in the United States. The overwhelming majority of participants have been peaceful, courageous, responsible, and inspiring. They deserve our respect and support, not condemnation – something that police in cities like Camden and Flint have commendably understood.
On the other hand, the small minority of folks who’ve resorted to violence in various forms, whether out of genuine anger or mere opportunism, are putting innocent people at risk, compounding the destruction of neighborhoods that are often already short on services and investment and detracting from the larger cause. I saw an elderly black woman being interviewed today in tears because the only grocery store in her neighborhood had been trashed. If history is any guide, that store may take years to come back. So let’s not excuse violence, or rationalize it, or participate in it. If we want our criminal justice system, and American society at large, to operate on a higher ethical code, then we have to model that code ourselves.
Second, I’ve heard some suggest that the recurrent problem of racial bias in our criminal justice system proves that only protests and direct action can bring about change, and that voting and participation in electoral politics is a waste of time. I couldn’t disagree more. The point of protest is to raise public awareness, to put a spotlight on injustice, and to make the powers that be uncomfortable; in fact, throughout American history, it’s often only been in response to protests and civil disobedience that the political system has even paid attention to marginalized communities. But eventually, aspirations have to be translated into specific laws and institutional practices – and in a democracy, that only happens when we elect government officials who are responsive to our demands.
Moreover, it’s important for us to understand which levels of government have the biggest impact on our criminal justice system and police practices. When we think about politics, a lot of us focus only on the presidency and the federal government. And yes, we should be fighting to make sure that we have a president, a Congress, a U.S. Justice Department, and a federal judiciary that actually recognize the ongoing, corrosive role that racism plays in our society and want to do something about it. But the elected officials who matter most in reforming police departments and the criminal justice system work at the state and local levels.
It’s mayors and county executives that appoint most police chiefs and negotiate collective bargaining agreements with police unions. It’s district attorneys and state’s attorneys that decide whether or not to investigate and ultimately charge those involved in police misconduct. Those are all elected positions. In some places, police review boards with the power to monitor police conduct are elected as well. Unfortunately, voter turnout in these local races is usually pitifully low, especially among young people – which makes no sense given the direct impact these offices have on social justice issues, not to mention the fact that who wins and who loses those seats is often determined by just a few thousand, or even a few hundred, votes.
So the bottom line is this: if we want to bring about real change, then the choice isn’t between protest and politics. We have to do both. We have to mobilize to raise awareness, and we have to organize and cast our ballots to make sure that we elect candidates who will act on reform.
Finally, the more specific we can make demands for criminal justice and police reform, the harder it will be for elected officials to just offer lip service to the cause and then fall back into business as usual once protests have gone away. The content of that reform agenda will be different for various communities. A big city may need one set of reforms; a rural community may need another. Some agencies will require wholesale rehabilitation; others should make minor improvements. Every law enforcement agency should have clear policies, including an independent body that conducts investigations of alleged misconduct. Tailoring reforms for each community will require local activists and organizations to do their research and educate fellow citizens in their community on what strategies work best.
But as a starting point, I’ve included two links below. One leads to a report and toolkit developed by the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights and based on the work of the Task Force on 21st Century Policing that I formed when I was in the White House. And if you’re interested in taking concrete action, we’ve also created a dedicated site at the Obama Foundation to aggregate and direct you to useful resources and organizations who’ve been fighting the good fight at the local and national levels for years.
I recognize that these past few months have been hard and dispiriting – that the fear, sorrow, uncertainty, and hardship of a pandemic have been compounded by tragic reminders that prejudice and inequality still shape so much of American life. But watching the heightened activism of young people in recent weeks, of every race and every station, makes me hopeful. If, going forward, we can channel our justifiable anger into peaceful, sustained, and effective action, then this moment can be a real turning point in our nation’s long journey to live up to our highest ideals.
Let’s get to work.
Ive found him to be extremely insightful, knowledgeable, and helpful regarding his teaching experiences. We are having a disagreement right now in a place that we are told is not a chat room. As far as I’m concerned the spar is over. Honestly I probably have more in common with him than most of you. If I was going to be an asshole or troll (which I don’t even know what that means I’m so social networking challenged) don’t you think I would have jumped on it sooner? I’m a woman by the way, not “dude” (I’ll address that comment soon).