Walk to Justice Tommy Green – Mobile Beacon City Editor Participants On December 20, 2014, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) held a “Walk to Justice” at the Historic Stone Street Baptist Church, 311 Tunstall St., Mobile. We want to acknowledge, Rev. Milton E. Saffold for allowing us to use the facility. The rally was scheduled to be held at Lyons Park but inclement weather changed that plan. Program participants were: Ronald Ali, President NAACP Mobile Branch; James Barber, Mobile Police Chief; Alex J. Lofton (Huggy Bear), poet; Albert Terry, Mobile Based Socialist Alternatives; Jared McCord, U.S. Airforce; and Rodski RodSki, DJ. President Ali said, “I have been in contact with Mayor Sandy Stimpson, Chief Barber, and other city officials, so Mobile, possibly, won’t have to deal with issues that other cities across America are dealing with. I attended a training session at the Mobile Police Academy for cadets and provided input on cultural awareness. Sensitivity training on different cultures is very important to make cadets aware of other cultures that they will be encountering. This information can prevent, possible misunderstanding between the police and citizens.” Chief Barber said, “I am here mainly to listen to your questions.” However, I am supportive of body cameras for the police because the camera protects the police and the citizens.” There were numerous questions about police misconduct. Chief Barber said, “I believe in holding police accountable, but there is a process because the police are covered by Civil Service rules.” When the questions and answers session was over, we marched to City Hall and held signs that dealt with the issues. After different individuals spoke we departed for the day. Today, the weather wasn’t ideal for walking for justice, but striving for freedom, justice, and equality isn’t easy either. It requires perseverance when times become difficult, but you have a goal that you are working toward, so you march on. On December 29, the City Council will be discussing purchasing body cameras. The City Council meeting begins at 10:30 a.m. “THE STRUGGLE CONTINUES!”
Posted on: Mon, 22 Dec 2014 23:12:59 +0000
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