RANDERSON wrote: >I, for one, respect the police and the hazardous nature of their work. >However, as one trained in defense techniques which require thought during >the heightened moments of confrontation, I can not accept that the most >likely alternative was the wanton taking of a human life. And, it is high >time that we hold those empowered to serve and protect to do just that. >Too often, when confronted with persons of color, rationale is subject to the >extreme, esoterical notion that un-bridled, in-human circumstance feeds the >frenzy. And, since the one confronting is considered sub-human, given to the >wildest extremes, imaginable, over-whelming force is justified.
Thank you for saying this. I am familiar with some of the techniques that could have prevented this debacle, even though I am unable to use them. I happen know that the police department has in the past received training from at least one instructor who teaches forms which specifically involve machetes and other weapons of varying lengths. The police seem to be too gun-centered. There are other tools and techniques available but everything we hear seems to be centered on whether or not to use "the gun." I respect the difficulties of the job the police are trying to do. However, they wield the authority of the state and the power of life and death and therefore I demand high standards from them. I get very concerned when I am told that they are unwilling to live in my neighborhood. This tells me that they are afraid of my neighborhood. I can not trust gun-wielding individuals who are more afraid of my neighborhood than I am. I know what it's like to have a gun pointed at me by someone who is afraid. Anyone in that condition is unpredictable and dangerous. _______________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Unsubscribe, Digest option, and more: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
