Chaos Before Change
The Derek Chauvin trial is finally coming to an end. He was found guilty on all three counts. Next is the sentencing. Did I find happiness in the verdict? No. I know I should, but it’s too soon for me to celebrate. For me, the sentencing is the true factor that will help determine what changes are needed to make all Americans feel safer when approached by police. I am happy that the family of George Floyd can find some happiness in the verdict and that they can find comfort in knowing that justice is being served. I don’t find comfort in someone else’s misfortunes. And with the sentencing scheduled a few weeks from now, I don’t know how to feel.
No matter the sentence, I am looking forward to the change that this case will bring to law enforcement. Change is already happening. Unfortunately, I noticed something quite strange about change: chaos comes before change can take root. Transition can never plant its seeds into the ground when chaos appears. Here comes a splash or two of drama, followed by a massive dose of chaos. Drama and chaos cause those around it to forget about the progress that has been made.
Chaos is overshadowing the happiness that was found in the verdict. Don't believe me? Turn on one of these cable news sources. Read about it on FaceBook. Google it. You can view it on your local news channel. One victory in the judicial system and multiple tragedies involving police have followed. I'm not saying that these events are related, but by default, they are.
Police-related homicide is rearing its ugly head at a very pivotal moment regarding policing in this country. When we thought there was a ray of sunshine, storm clouds appear. I understand that the recent deaths of individuals by law enforcement were not the officers’ original intent. I also know that the people who have lost their lives did not imagine that their encounter with the police would result in their last moments alive.
This is not a post intending to belittle or show any form of disrespect to law enforcement personnel. I understand that becoming a police officer is hard work. Once you have worked your butt off to become one, you have to work even harder to maintain your position. You have the honor of being in a position that is meant to protect and serve all. Little kids look up to you. You wear your uniform and badge with pride. However, there is a slight problem.
People who wear a police uniform and badge, carry weapons, and wear bullet-proof vests can legally wound or murder another human being over fear. "I was in fear for my life" is a phrase that is embedded in my mind. Countless times, that phrase has parted the lips of countless officers. It's almost as if that phrase is taught on day one. Silly as it may seem, officers should have serious background checks that include medical records and mental health records. They should also receive multiple psych tests that can determine a person's genuine fear. Yeah, I know—silly wishful thinking.
I'm so thankful that Derek Chauvin's actions weren't based on that phrase. Everything his attorney stated was based on pointing at other factors for the cause of death, not that he was in fear for his life. In my opinion, the trial will be used as a tool to create tougher policies on officers about misconduct. It’s also going to begin the healing process of the surrounding community. People will start to feel safer when the police come around, not panic in fear when they see an officer. The verdict and future sentencing give people hope that change in the judicial system is coming, which will help officers control their fears.
I want to conclude with this thought: I am someone who has anxiety regarding law enforcement. As a child, I witnessed an officer use a racial slur at a person of color. I also witnessed the brutal way law enforcement handled my next-door neighbors. As an adult, I had to care for an extended family member beaten by the police. My son is pulled over frequently, and his car searched just because he chooses to smoke BLK cigars and has slanted eyes. Because of those moments, I want police reform. Law enforcement is endeared as the people who are supposed to protect and serve us all. It feels like some officers choose to neglect and harass. I want to feel safe if I have to share a moment of my time in their presence. I want not to talk with my youngest son about the do’s and don’t when encountering a police officer as a young black man. I’m ready for change.
