cThe times we are living in are extremely stressful. I can’t remember a time within the last few years people have been calm concerning race relations. It’s becoming more dangerous as tensions and personal opinions flare; the wrong things are being said to the public causing negative reactions.
When Cleveland Browns player, Isaiah Crowell, displayed a poor choice of photo selection on his IG, the backlash to say the least was negative. It showed the picture of someone dressed in black slashing the throat of a police officer. Noted that this was on display before the killing of the 5 Dallas cops, still, it was a dangerous picture to show when you garner such a following.
Crowell recognized the responsibility he has a role model, took the photo down and since has apologized. Sadly, that apology fell on deaf ears. Apparently, cops aren’t accepting his written apology and have threatened to boycott Cleveland Brown games until Crowell gives an apology THEY feel is warranted.
The President of Cleveland Police Patrolmen’s Association doesn’t buy Crowell’s apology and gave a few suggestions of his own.
“He needs to go to Dallas, help the families who lost their loved ones last week, write them a check, look them in the eyes and give a heartfelt apology.”
Loomis says Crowell’s post was as “offensive as putting a picture of historical African-American men being hung from a tree in the 60s.” He adds that if Crowell doesn’t go to Dallas and make a donation, “I will pull Cleveland officers, sheriffs, state troopers out of First Energy Stadium this season if he doesn’t make it right.”
As for Crowell admitting he was wrong and acted out of rage — Loomis says, “You’re a grown ass man, and you claim you were too emotional to know it was wrong? Think we’ll accept your apology? Kiss my ass.”
Since the incident Crowell has met with the Cleveland Police Chef.
But what’s sad? The police wasn’t this upset when a child, Tamir Rice was gunned down. Hm.
Hopefully all parties can come to a solution. It’s difficult to weigh in on this situation, but African-Americans are growing tired of their treatment and suggesting someone to apologize how YOU want them to won’t diffuse the situation. It just adds fuel to an already growing fire.
Athletes have the opportunity to use their platform to really help bridge some gaps and become more than a role models… they get to be a voice for the generation. Hopefully, more will become vocal in a responsible way.