DeRay Mckesson, lovingly profiled in the New York Times Magazine recently as one of a core group of activists who “have built the most formidable American protest movement of the 21st century,” is upset with President Obama tonight over his signing of Sen. Ben Cardin’s so-called “National Blue Alert” system, which creates a nationwide alert system to help capture anyone who harms or threatens to harm a police officer.
Obama signs bill drafted by @SenatorCardin to create 'Blue alert' system for police, reports @jfritze. http://t.co/yKdBu2TSl7
— Justin Fenton (@justin_fenton) May 20, 2015
The Baltimore Sun reports that the law, introduced by Cardin in 2010, creates a system similar to the Amber alerts used to locate abducted children. “Seamless integration across the broadest audiences can expedite the capture of suspects and reduce the risk of additional victims,” said Cardin, who attended the signing.
Mckesson calls the legislation, which is named for ambushed New York City police officers Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu, “offensive” and proof that hate is organized in America.
I don't even know how we got to a point where there is now a federal system akin to Amber Alerts for officers who are "in fear." America.
— deray (@deray) May 20, 2015
Now, I've been generally positive about your recent comments re: police violence, @POTUS. But this "Blue Alert" system is offensive.
— deray (@deray) May 20, 2015
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By signing this "Blue Alert" law, you made it clear that you stand firmly with those who not only wish us harm, but actually harm us.
— deray (@deray) May 20, 2015
You've gotta give it to the National FOP for sneaking in a federal "Blue Alert" system as police kill people. Hate is organized in America.
— deray (@deray) May 20, 2015
A "Blue Alert" system. I'm speechless.
— deray (@deray) May 20, 2015
On Malcolm X's 90th birthday, @POTUS legislation creating a federal "Blue Alert" system to assist in protecting the police. America.
— deray (@deray) May 20, 2015
If there was a "Black Alert" it would be in constant use. Because Black folk are in constant danger from the police in America.
— deray (@deray) May 20, 2015
And why didn't we hear about this "Blue Alert" legislation from the Congressional Black Caucus? Who was on watch on this one?
— deray (@deray) May 20, 2015
I'm still upset with @POTUS. But I think I'm actually more upset with all the people who silently watched the "Blue Alert" get to his desk.
— deray (@deray) May 20, 2015
I might die fighting to change policing in America. That was my 1st thought after learning about the "Blue Alert" system. Hate is organized.
— deray (@deray) May 20, 2015
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