Obama On Fatal Shootings: 'We've Got A Serious Problem'

[DonViejo]

Source: Talking Points Memo

-snip-

Obama's full statement below:

All Americans should be deeply troubled by the fatal shootings of Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Philando Castile in Falcon Heights, Minnesota. We've seen such tragedies far too many times, and our hearts go out to the families and communities who've suffered such a painful loss. Although I am constrained in commenting on the particular facts of these cases, I am encouraged that the U.S. Department of Justice has opened a civil rights investigation in Baton Rouge, and I have full confidence in their professionalism and their ability to conduct a thoughtful, thorough, and fair inquiry.

But regardless of the outcome of such investigations, what's clear is that these fatal shootings are not isolated incidents. They are symptomatic of the broader challenges within our criminal justice system, the racial disparities that appear across the system year after year, and the resulting lack of trust that exists between law enforcement and too many of the communities they serve.

To admit we've got a serious problem in no way contradicts our respect and appreciation for the vast majority of police officers who put their lives on the line to protect us every single day. It is to say that, as a nation, we can and must do better to institute the best practices that reduce the appearance or reality of racial bias in law enforcement.

That's why, two years ago, I set up a Task Force on 21st Century Policing that convened police officers, community leaders, and activists. Together, they came up with detailed recommendations on how to improve community policing. So even as officials continue to look into this week's tragic shootings, we also need communities to address the underlying fissures that lead to these incidents, and to implement those ideas that can make a difference. That's how we'll keep our communities safe. And that's how we can start restoring confidence that all people in this great nation are equal before the law.

In the meantime, all Americans should recognize the anger, frustration, and grief that so many Americans are feeling -- feelings that are being expressed in peaceful protests and vigils. Michelle and I share those feelings. Rather than fall into a predictable pattern of division and political posturing, let's reflect on what we can do better. Let's come together as a nation, and keep faith with one another, in order to ensure a future where all of our children know that their lives matter.

Read more: http://talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/obama-statement-shootings-alton-sterling-philando-castile

[Chakab]

1. Too bad that the President's appointed FBI director and other officials in the Justice Department

seem to earnestly believe that criticizing the police for this kind of behavior actually makes the general public less safe because they won't feel comfortable doing their jobs if they aren't allowed to murder with impunity.

[Surya Gayatri]

2. Once again, he's obliged to assume the role of "mourner-in-chief", faced with two more outrages.

[ciaobaby]

3. I was very disappointed with his statement.

Especially the last two paragraphs of the statement.
1.Referencing a two year old "task force" that appears to have nothing to show for two years of work other than "detailed" recommendations on how to improve community policing.
Was hoping for the said task force to address the immediate need to review all killings of black americans by police.
Improved community policing sounds nice but does not address the murders committed, and gone unpunished, over and over again.

2. The last paragraph I found rather condescending and more of the same, be peaceful, keep the faith, blah blah blah

NOT NEAR ENOUGH FROM OUR PRESIDENT.

[christx30]

5. Agreed on your #2 point.

Anyone that is able to "keep the faith" either hasn't been paying attention or has a vested interest in the status quo.

[YOHABLO]

4. To say we have a ''problem'' is an understatement. This is a national emergency.

[DustyJoe]

6. Time to confiscate Police guns and put them on the no fly list ?

As a former cop (80's) it seems todays officers lack weapons & common sense/training.

Barney Fife 1 round in a buttoned shirt pocket might need to be considered.

[Nihil]

7. No Shit Sherlock ... (n/t)