OPINION:
Many in the mainstream press have bent over backward to portray the “Black Lives Matter” movement in the most positive light possible — despite the fact that they have chanted in unison “Pigs in a blanket; fry them like bacon,” and “What do we want? Dead cops! When do we want them? Now!” It is as though the were the movement’s agent, not reporters chronicling events and gatherings.
The Black Lives Matter movement’s incendiary rhetoric and violent actions have caused police officers all over the country to go into a defensive mode in which their lives threatened and they are in danger every time they put on the uniform. It has reached a fever pitch, with five officers being slain in the line of duty by Micah Xavier Johnson, who came in support of Black Lives Matter while protests were taking place.
Most police officers are decent individuals who are trying to serve the people. There is no question that among the force there are bad apples. These people need to be weeded out and kicked to the curb, no question. However, for the mainstream press to paint all officers with a broad brush, saying that if one officer is bad, they are all bad, is not only is slanderous, but an injustice. It hurts those who are trying to serve their communities and it puts lives at risk.
Micah Johnson was not the only one with blood on his hands. Also responsible is the mainstream media, Black Lives Matter and others who have given the movement legitimacy. They should pray to their makers for forgiveness, for I certainly with not give it.
ALEX PUGLIESE
Kenilworth, N.J.
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