By Katy Rogers
A few dozen members of the Everett Police attended a protest in Somerville last Wednesday, July 27, in solidarity with the Somerville Police regarding a ‘#BlackLivesMatter’ hanging on Somerville City Hall. Everett Police and Fire protested peacefully and asked that a more inclusive sign be put up in Somerville to support their colleagues.
Everett Police congregated in Somerville last Wednesday, July 27, to join fellow Somerville Police officers in protest of the controversial #BlackLivesMatter banner which adorns Somerville City Hall.
With recent violence in various communities throughout the United States towards Police Officers over racial controversy, police said they felt the banner is exclusionary in conveying the message that all lives matter, and that it can cause more division than unity throughout the community.
Everett Patrolman Union President, Jeff McCabe gave a statement regarding his stance on the matter following the peaceful protest.
“It is the overwhelming opinion of the Everett Police Department that all lives matter, all the time,” he said. “Given the climate we live in now, more than ever, communities need to come together and work together with law enforcement to provide a secure environment and future. The Everett Police Department strives to maintain, foster, and grow, understanding and mutual respect with all members of our community.”
Regarding the banner, the overwhelming feeling is that a better, less controversial sign should read “All Lives Matter” and anything else should come with the backing of the entire community as City Hall is the people’s building, not belonging to one man, but to all residents of that city,” he continued.
At another location in Somerville, supporters of Black Lives Matter gathered to show their support of the banner. Some attended the police gathering in front of City Hall to peacefully express their opposing views.
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