DISQUS

Shaun · 1 year ago

I think the most important thing she said was that we need to be visible. If you support equal rights, if you are a victim of discrimination, say something, silence will just lead to acceptance. This is the outrage that should have been present the moment this was put to vote, it's good that it's there now, and we need to work to make sure it makes a difference.

Daniel de Boom · 1 year ago

Theo--
Could you find out why there were at least 3 police in the park above video taping the events?
At one point a speaker (Vanessa Romain?) made mention of it and asked the crowd to acknowledge them.
Even the unflappable Justin Rudd was heard to ask, "Now what is THAT all about?"

John_B · 1 year ago

Law enforcement agencies generally videotape such demonstrations as a means of helping to identify any individuals in such crowds that may incite violence or commit other crimes during the otherwise lawful event.

Were someone in the crowd to be attacked (by counter-protesters for example) law enforcement officials would have a greater likelihood of memorializing the act to further any subsequent prosecution.

Other reasons include, but are not limited to: Allowing cops to better counter false claims and false complaints of misconduct. An allegation of misconduct is a serious matter. Before videotaping came into its own, such complaints often came down to one person's word against another's. Law enforcement videography can now provide much needed context for an officer's actions and decisions in the event they are scrutinized by Internal Affairs or Civilian Review Boards at a later date.

Law enforcement videography is also conducted to protect protesters themselves from false allegations that they are violating the law. Groups in opposition to those protesting often allege violations of law against those groups they oppose ("They failed to follow their designated route of march" or "They disturbed my peace with their loudspeakers" or "They blocked traffic at the intersection and unlawfully deprived me of my right to move about freely", etc.). Law Enforcement videography can help disprove any such false allegations.

Hope that helps!

Theo Douglas · 1 year ago

Hi, Daniel, yes, I can find out--and I will. Thanks for the tip. Theo

rdm24 · 1 year ago

I think WED-IN stands for "Wishing to End Discrimination and INequality Now"

Theo Douglas · 1 year ago

Raphael, you're right! Thanks for correcting me. Theo

Daniel de Boom · 1 year ago

Thanks, JB!