In what’s considered a “post-racial” society, we are learning that major cities like St. Louis are more segregated than many of us even fathomed. For instance, the STL police force even have segregated police associations. On Sunday, after a few St. Louis Rams players entered the field with their hands up to express solidarity with the people of Ferguson the St. Louis Police Association demanded an apology from the entire organization and even went as far as to ask that the NFL punish the players involved in the silent and peaceful protest.
Now it seems like the Black police association in St. Louis has taken a bold stand against their comrades commending the Rams players for what they did.
THE ETHICAL SOCIETY OF POLICE, is the primary voice of African
American Police Officers in St. Louis City, and as such it COMPLETELY SUPPORTS THE ACTIONS OF THE ST. LOUIS RAMS FOOTBALL PLAYERS IN WHICH THEY SHOWED SUPPORT FOR THE FAMILY OF MICHAEL BROWN BY ENTERING THE STADIUM WITH THEIR HANDS UP.We think that their actions were commendable and that they should not be ridiculed, disciplined or punished for taking a stand on this very important issue which is of great concern around the world and especially in the community where these players work.
THE STATEMENTS OF THE ST. LOUIS POLICE OFFICERS
ASSOCIATION DO NOT REFLECT THE OPINIONS OF THE MAJORITY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN POLICE OFFICERS IN THE DEPARTMENT BECAUSE THERE ARE NO AFRICAN AMERICAN OFFICERS ON THEIR GOVERNING BOARD AND THEY HAVE A MINIMAL AMOUNT OF AFRICAN AMERICAN MEMBERS.The Ethical Society of Police has been the primary bridge between African American community and the police department for many years. The Ethical Society will use its best efforts to continue to work with the community leaders and the Department of Justice to address issues that affect our community such as racial profiling, police brutality and disparities in hiring and disciplining practices of African American Officers.
It is clear that the their is a divide between the black and white police officers in St. Louis. This divide reflects a much deeper issue in St. Louis and in America. Even more clear is the arrogance and entitlement of the St. Louis Police Association who tried to have players punished for using their right to protest in a peaceful manner.
Via KSDK