Warning: This video is graphic and emotionally disturbing.
I wasn’t going to post about this incident. I figure most heads come here to be entertained, not provoked. And as Jay Smooth pointed out recently, sometimes it’s better to leave the complex and sensitive issues to experts and people who are able to attribute the appropriate amount of time and research. Like Swigga says, don’t speak on it if you don’t know about it. But then I saw the video. I’ve been reading about it over the past few days but not until a few minutes ago did I have the unfortunate experience of watching footage of the incident. Sitting there in bed with my wife and son, #$&*@!, I can’t find the words to express the sense of outrage and concern that overcame me. This issue right here, although a result of complex human emotions and with potentially significant and widespread consequences, is fairly simple to “get”. The video above is very clear so be forewarned. The link below was found via @Jsmooth995.
5 Things You Can Do Right Now About The Oscar Grant Shooting
1. Digg the story so that the national media can pick up on it
2. Contact BART Director Carole Ward Allen and demand that 1) the officers involved be taken off duty without pay and charged and fully prosecuted; 2) there be an independent investigation of the shooting that includes a review of training and hiring practices; and 3) BART establish an independent residents’ review board for the police Call her at 510-464-6095 or email the BART Directors at BoardofDirectors@bart.gov
3. Call the BART police to complain about the officers’ conduct and demand immediate action: Internal Affairs: Sergeant David Chlebowski 510.464.7029,dchlebo@bart.gov; Chief of Police: Gary Gee 510.464.7022, ggee@bart.gov
Call them toll free at 877.679.7000 and press the last four digits of the phone number you wish to reach.
4. Talk it up on your blogs, networks and talk radio shows (call Michael Baisden 877-6BADBOY or Rev. Al, etc. to get this on the national radar)
5. Stay tuned for other actions, protests, etc., especially if you are in the Bay.
