African American
In reply to the discussion: Racial Profiling Alleged At Bernie Sanders Rally In St. Paul [View all]NCTraveler
(30,481 posts)I read a short post from #23 yesterday that was really to the point of some things we are seeing. POC at flat out used as a political football here. I truly feel it is a majority of posters doing so. I tried to find some things out about this event yesterday and was either ignored or outright dismissed. I would like to omit many O'Malley supporters from this thought I'm sharing. Overall, they really seem to want to discuss social justice in a very thoughtful manner. I say that as an unapologetic Clinton supporter.
I have to say, I find the conversation here only a bit better. Seems some people who never post in this group have found their way here to bring trouble and completely deflect from the issue. Thanks to those here who have hit on some solid points.
Points with respect to Sanders. This is not a direct reflection on him and his beliefs with race and race relations. The only way I attach anything negative to him is in management. They should have had something in place for an issue such as this. I mean it is simply something all candidates know is going to happen. The young man dealing with this was 1) in way over his head, and 2) completely lacked awareness to race relations. I believe I am being fair and kind in my assessment. I only know him from the video. I believe that is about all that can truly be known from the video alone.
The Sanders campaign cannot have a major dust up that would take over the last couple of days of media coverage before Iowa. The young man was out of his league but he understands this. I think it would be difficult to assess the true intent of the anger he showed. He panicked and showed his lack of sensitivity at best, instinctive racism at worst. People do really messed up things when they are charged with tasks to great for them to handle.
Overall, the issue to me has little to do with Sanders. It is an enormous issue and should be pointed out and discussed. When a cop pulls someone over for DWB, we are all outraged. Here it is becoming clear at least one person was removed for "sitting while black." It is an extension of similar oppressive thought patterns and we should recognize that.
I have zero problem with known protesters being removed from an event like this as politely as the protestors will allow. I also have enormous respect for protesters who use these events to elevate causes. It is a provably effective method. No one should be deflecting, dismissing, or flat out mocking a situation where it appears a person was removed for SWB.
Final note. Am I reading correctly that they were there to protest failed immigration policies? Hero's is what they are.
Edit: FC, after reading on of your posts I felt a moment of pride. Your daughter sounds amazing and seems to be someone fighting on the front lines. That is huge. If I felt proud just reading I can't imagine how proud you must be as a mother.