mekka okereke Jan 27, 2023
Citizens! *Puts on steel toed boots* I urge you to remain calm at this moment! *loads rubber bullets into launcher* violence is not the answer! *Hangs night stick from belt* We grieve with your community! *Pulls reflective visor down on helmet* Peace is what this moment calls for *climbs into tank* The great MLK Jr said and I quote: I love police, and they are our friends! *diesel engine roars* So obey, comply, and remember we are in this together! *Tear gas launcher slowly points towards crowd*
Show threadmekka okereke Jan 27, 2023

Are we ready to talk about how police dressing in riot gear and acting, well, like cops, makes crowds more likely to riot? No? OK then. Proceed.

https://www.themarshallproject.org/2020/06/01/why-so-many-police-are-handling-the-protests-wrong

Why So Many Police Are Handling the Protests Wrong

Disproportionate use of force can turn a peaceful protest violent, research shows.

The Marshall Project
Show threadRachel Rawlings
@mekkaokereke Kettling, shield beating, having "that guy" who's too loose with the pepper spray or the baton right up front, are all calculated to induce a fight or flight response in the protestors, who are then prevented from fleeing. Panic and riot are easy to manufacture.
Jan 27, 2023 at 3:32pmWeb