Flint, MI Sheriff Chris Swanson and his officers had their actions go viral last month when they laid down their guns, batons and weapons and joined a hundreds of people in a march. The Sheriff and his officers lent their voices to the chants of “No justice, no peace,” in recognition of the brutal death of George Floyd, who was killed in Minneapolis. Swanson has turned into a national spokesman for how police should respond to demonstrations.
The Sheriff and his officers lent their voices to the chants of “No justice, no peace.”
I believe the actions shown by Flint Sheriff Swanson and his officers were basically a tiny pebble being thrown into a Lake of Schema.It showed some positive tactics of coming across as being trustworthy and understanding of the people’s frustration, grieving, and opinions.
Hundreds march at peaceful protest seeking justice for George Floyd on Saturday, May 30, 2020 on Miller Road in Flint Township. (Jake May | MLive.com)
This was exemplified by Sheriff Swanson disarming himself, removing his gear and leveling with the community to join them in their march. This action showed that he saw them, heard them, and united with them.
“…the actions shown by Flint Sheriff Swanson and his officers were basically a tiny pebble being thrown into a Lake of Schema.
Public community leaders could create a relationship with the sheriff and start to form some trust between the public and police.
I recently heard on the news how one reporter stated that the peaceful protests are signs of active listening. The protestors were vocally stating their opinions while the officers stand silently listening.
In the situation with Sheriff Swanson, prior to joining the protest, he chose to do the right thing.
This act had a mini-ripple effect and provided a or just copycat effect for other officers to join the protests along with the public. States such as Mass., Co., New York, and Conn. showcased their officers with linked arms, Some photos showed the officers when they ‘took a knee’ with the protestors.
To truly think about it, some people may view this as a step in the right direction since some cops are good; this can be good public relations’ for the police department to show glimpses of compassion and empathy.
This may be just the beginning but I just hope these acts make difference for justice everywhere.
