Statement on Recent Police Shootings of Black Men and Corrosive Level of Distrust in Communities of Color
Thursday, July 7th, 2016
“If President Barack Obama does nothing else in his retirement, he can lead a national conversation on police/community engagement and help the country address this national stain and tragedy of police officers shooting and killing black men.
“Last night in Harlem, I watched a black man pushing a baby in a stroller refuse a police van’s invitation to cross the street because the guy seemed not to trust the police officer would actually let him cross without provocation. That level of distrust can’t be allowed to stand. This corrosive relationship can’t be allowed to stand.
“And these killings with impunity can’t be allowed to stand. I believe President Obama, unencumbered by the demands of the office, can do a great deal to help heal these broken relationships. Our country needs it; our communities deserve it!”
Rev. Fred Davie, Executive Vice President, Union Theological Seminary
Friday, July 8th, 2016
“Our hearts are heavy due to the violence in our nation. Prayers for the families of all of the victims, hatred to cease and for leadership that seeks peace and pursues it.”
Serene Jones, President, Union Theological Seminary
Contact: [email protected], 646-603- 6869