Why cops don't act in the face of white supremacy
As I read about the recent events in Ottawa, my heart aches for my dear friends and former neighbours who are now living in fear and anxiety due to the presence of a racist mob in their city. It is disheartening to witness how little protection and support they receive from the very institution that purports to safeguard their well-being - the police. The stark contrast in police responses to right-wing extremists compared to anti-racists is not only apparent but deeply troubling.
It is no secret that police responses to right-wing extremists often appear lenient or even complicit, while anti-racist protesters are met with heavy-handed tactics and aggression. This discrepancy raises valid questions about the true intentions of law enforcement and their commitment to upholding justice and equality.
"Cops will always protect the rich and the racists. It's baked into policing. No amount of reform can change this rotten foundation. Abolition now!" These powerful words challenge us to recognize that the current policing system is fundamentally flawed and built on a foundation of inequality.
Calls for increased funding for police, as a response to these events, raise concerns that it may only further entrench the existing issues. Pouring more money into a broken system won't address the root cause of the problem - systemic racism and the inherent bias in law enforcement.
True change requires a fundamental shift in our approach to public safety. It demands a move towards abolition, reimagining a society where public safety is built on compassion, community support, and restorative justice. Abolition calls for dismantling oppressive systems and redirecting resources to address the root causes of crime and distress, rather than relying solely on punitive measures.
As we confront this distressing reality, we must acknowledge the role played by racism in shaping policing practices. The system, historically rooted in oppression, perpetuates the very inequality it was meant to eradicate. Meaningful reform is not enough; it is time for a paradigm shift towards a new model of community-based safety that respects the rights and dignity of all.
To pave the way for this transformative change, we must centre the voices and experiences of those most affected by racist violence and policing. We must amplify the calls of marginalized communities for justice, equality, and abolition. By supporting grassroots movements and initiatives, we can work collectively to create a society where safety is accessible to all, free from racial prejudice and injustice.
In conclusion, let us stand in solidarity with the community in Ottawa and all those affected by policing. We must be resolute in our commitment to abolition, recognizing that the path to genuine change is through dismantling the rotten foundation of the current policing system. Together, we can build a future where all are truly safe, valued, and protected, regardless of their background or identity. Abolition is not just a call for action; it is a vision for a better and more equitable world.