Gentlemen, let's not forget that the conduct of the few cannot be used to dismiss the message of the majority. Despite Mr. Gray's extensive police record, one cannot say that he deserved death. Why should we, as citizens of this republic, allow law enforcement to be the final arbitrators of life and death
once the threat has ended? The police should enforce the law and serve the community, while leaving punishment up to the courts and juries.
What we see in the riots of Baltimore encapsulates the pent up frustration of a community, escalating to violence where others would have discourse. Whether it is the unleashed anger of the voiceless or the opportunistic anarchist, however, no longer matters. The lives and property of innocent citizens are at risk with this violence, and all action should be taken to mitigate it. The violence of the few may incite the majority against the protesters, who require the majority's support to actually effect a change in the first place.
I sincerely hope that the situation in Baltimore returns to peaceful protest before matters get worse.
PS: Law enforcement should be respected, but to be respected also implies that you can be held accountable. Respecting law enforcement, necessary for order in this republic, does not mean that they are not also accountable for their actions.
Pictures of people cleaning up after yestereve's looting, for those of you seeking a glimmer of hope:
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