The frustrating reality of these recent police brutality cases is the unnecessary loss of life added with the constant pattern of victim blaming as opposed to recognizing the responsibility of the officers involved while making steps as a society to avert such situations.
The Sandra Bland case in Texas is no exception. Bland did not deserve to be arrested and placed in the jail cell where she later died. That is the issue with this entire case whether you believe the recent autopsy report that ruled her death as a suicide or still suspect conspiracy on the part of the police department involved. How can a simple encounter, which should have resulted in a warning or a ticket, go beyond that? What was Sandra Bland REALLY arrested for?
I watched the video and I do not see how venting to an officer after HE asks you why you are upset, continuing to smoke in your OWN car, and professing your rights to the officer are grounds for an arrest. When did citizens lose the right to not be arrested unless there is a TRULY just cause? Did we also lose the right to not be dragged outside of our vehicles unless we pose a physical threat to law enforcement? Shouldn’t all police officers express professionalism and de-escalate situations at all times?
For those who are not convinced of Bland’s innocence, the video shows that she was compliant at first and only increased her frustration and tone as the incident worsened. I encourage everyone to watch the unedited video that is circulating if you have not and place yourself or loved one in that situation.
Our society needs to realize that the United States is not a dictatorship or police state where citizens are arrested or killed for not “obeying” police officers. We can respect our law enforcement as we do any other human being and comply with lawful requests while still explaining our actions especially when questioned by the officer. We have the right to know EXACTLY WHY an officer decides to detain us; jail is not a five-star hotel and for most people in this economy, bail money is hard to come by. Why should any citizen blindly offer their wrists to handcuffs if an officer does not articulate the individuals’ offense?
To disagree with the policing tactics of SOME individuals in law enforcement is not anti-police; we need to fix the issues between law enforcement and citizens ESPECIALLY in regards to people of color. It would benefit our society as a whole if this is accomplished.
This incident should not have happened to Sandra Bland or anyone else and our society needs to stop making excuses as to why we cannot agree upon any solutions.
Writer and blogger. Perspectiv.words Founder, Chief Editor, and Contributor. I write to speak out and uplift. I also share my views on current events, culture, history, or any topic that moves my fingers to a pen or to type.
