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6.20.19: Philadelphia – (Politics): In a City Hall corridor, a group of well-known Philadelphians today demanded lawmakers release a unified statement that condemns the racist and offensive Facebook posts of more than 300 active police officers.
Philadelphia Sheriff-elect Rochelle Bilal was among the Rally for Justice coalition members who, after issuing statements in front of two television news cameras, offered testimony during the final City Council session before the summer break.
Ms. Bilal – a former Philadelphia police officer of 27 years who in the May primary unseated incumbent sheriff Jewel Williams and who also leads the Guardian Civic League, an association of African-American cops – said she was appalled that any of her colleagues would make disparaging statements about the people who live here in this city.
The findings of the Plain View Project, which earlier this month published an online database filled with vile social media content posted by former and active police officers in eight American cities, has animated the civil rights community here.
Roughly two weeks ago, a rally occurred in front of the police department, demanding the firing of the officers identified in the scandal. Yesterday, the mayor and his police commissioner met with many of those involved in said direct action. And on Thursday morning, the coalition members, who were adamant about legislators going on-the-record with their feelings on the reported misconduct, made their presence known in the chambers of City Council.
“No way that you should be sitting here silent. If you’re afraid, go home!” exclaimed Ms. Bilal, who in January will take over the Sheriff’s office.
Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler – a morning radio personality who pastors Mother Bethel A.M.E, one of the most historic congregations in the country – also testified today. The reverend said the community needs to hear and see the same energy from City Council on this issue that it put into muting R. Kelly, a reference to a February resolution passed by the legislative body which symbolically banned the R&B singer from the city due to his sexual abuse allegations.
Among the inappropriate statements uploaded by Philadelphia cops was one which advocated violence against 8th District City Councilwoman Cindy Bass, who in the post was referred to as “that bitch.”
“If you won’t stand up for the city, stand up for your colleague,” Rev. Tyler implored.
On Wednesday afternoon, City Councilmembers Helen Gym, Kenyatta Johnson and Curtis Jones, Jr., released a statement on the scandal. In it, they applauded the police commissioner’s removal of 72 officers from street duty, but said “we remain deeply concerned that this will not be enough to restore public trust and provide the healing that our communities deserve.”
Today, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney appeared on MSNBC to discuss the ignominy that has befallen the Philadelphia police department as a result of the Plain View Project’s public database. Mr. Kenney said he his embarrassed by the scandal and is aware that it has impeded progress on improving police-community relations.
Although the City Council today didn’t release a collective statement, they did unanimously authorize a resolution introduced by Councilmember Derek S. Green, which permits hearings on the issue.
Several of the coalition members today praised the councilman for his action. Mr. Green in a statement said:
“As a citizen and especially as a parent, the news of these posts disturbed me more than words can say. This is why I felt compelled to introduce this resolution.”
No date has been announced for the hearings.
Thanks for reading! Until next time, I’m Flood the Drummer® and I’m Drumming for Justice!™
©2019. All Rights Reserved
Rev. Alyn Waller, pastor of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, where Philadelphia police commissioner Richard Ross is a member, joined a coalition who are demanding City Council speak out against the hateful messages generated by more than 300 active police officers. Photo Credit: Christopher “Flood the Drummer” Norris – ©2019
Photo courtesy of the author.
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