The ugly history goes way back, at least as far back to a young man named Clifford Glover. He was just 12 when he was shot and killed by a cop who walked. Randolph Evans was only two years older and only lived about two years longer. In his case, the cop said he went temporarily, briefly insane. No time for him either.
The names from memory come back into focus every time this sad act is repeated. Arthur Miller, Luis Baez, Eleanor Bumpers, have we forgotten anyone? Then fast forward to Abner Louima, victim of gross police torture. He was one of the few who lived, and ironically, two cops in his case did time. No such luck for Anthony Baez (at least on state charges), Patrick Dorismond, Amadou Diallo, and Ousmane Zongo (though the cop in this case was convicted of criminally negligent homicide, he did no time). When angry black citizens say cops get away with killing unarmed black folks, these are the names they're talking about.
And now Sean Bell is added to the list. The city will likely settle any civil suits that come from this case. Millions will be paid out, as they were in several other recent cases.
But nothing changes.
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1 comment:
Initially I was lost for words. Can this be justice? Did I transport back in time without knowing it. I think …if it were two white men in the car would the verdict be different. Without hesitation or doubt “Yes” the outcome would have been guilty. I am confused on what happened. I think about Bell and I fight the rage, hurt, disappointment, and the hatred that is bubbling inside. The bullets tearing into the bodies of those men. Praying to God please let these bullets stop. The ripping of the flesh, the tears in their eyes, the fear in there hearts. It could have been brother, nephew or father. How can anyone justify the amount of ammo released. I know the sensible and logical way to react is with peace. When is it enough!
In the process of gaining our rightful place we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred (MLK).
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