Local NAACP calls for proactive discussions on racial equity

The El Dorado Union County branch of the NAACP condemn the behavior of the Minneapolis police officers involved in the encounter that resulted in the murder of Mr. George Floyd. This recorded incident has caused many reflective responses. These responses reflect dormant fears and frustrations of the past.

While destruction and violence are not reflective of the core mission of the NAACP, we recognize the frustrations of witnessing repeated violent behaviors without a hint of a justifiable response or mere recognition of a crime.

A friend said to me, “2020 arrived as no other decade, its impact is devastating, and it is not 6 months old.”

As I write this, I am reminded of so many instances of overtly racist behaviors that I have witnessed and experienced in my lifetime. I grew up with “The Talk”, as a black child I was taught early how to behave in the presence of policemen. This included lowering my head when speaking to a police officer, never to make a sudden move, speak only when spoken to, and never to contradict an officer. I had no positive memories of the police as a child, this is a sad commentary on the society of yesterday.

Now today, faces have changed, and I grew up, I realize the impact of true racist behaviors. In the past few days, we have felt anger and disgust at the behavior of several members of the Minneapolis Police Department. Of the emotions felt surprise was not one. That is the real tragedy-it was not a surprise. I was appalled but not surprised.

The murder of unarmed Black people must Stop! We do not condemn any police force; we do however, condemn every police officer with a

buddy that demonstrates racist behaviors and views it as acceptable. This must be the best first step in resolution. On Sunday May 31, I witnessed a culturally diverse community concerned about the survival of their community. No one asked political affiliation; however, they all wanted to know how an instance of severe violence can be addressed and prevented in our community.

In reading the Sunday, May 31 News-Times, I realized that we must not be distracted from local issues that perpetuate racism and racist behaviors. Our city council and other elected officials must remove the symbolic knee that is causing the demise of our community. Be on alert, the camera will continue to monitor your activities. We will no longer be impaired by the “Hazards of Immobility”. We will hold you accountable for your actions. Without movement and purposeful activity, we will return to the stagnation of the past. The NAACP is in full support of peaceful, powerful, and specific protest to address systemic racism.

El Dorado, in my opinion, is unique. We have an opportunity to demonstrate a cohesive, culturally representative approach to implementing change. It is time for an open discussion of disparities.

We are open and willing to be pro-active. Join us in our open discussion.

To the families that have endured this tragedy, our hearts are with you. We are so sorry that it has taken us so very long to extend our hand in sympathy to you. Our prayers are with you. Janice Bush President, El Dorado-Union County NAACP 870-863-7437 janice.bush29@outlook.com or youreldoradonaacp6034@gmail.com