I'm white, and here's what I think about the shootings of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile:
They were murdered.
No matter what you believe happened during those moments before with the police.
Because those officers had options. As we've seen with white men, even pointing their firearms at the police. Even when arresting a mass shooter. Officers have alternatives. Alton and Philander did not.
And it will happen, again, and again, and again, and again.
Until every white person, like me, who wants justice and equality for all our brothers and sisters stands up, stands with them, and demands change.
That's it.
This isn't anti-law enforcement.
Those men and women, of all colors, who uphold the oath they took to serve and protect deserve our admiration and respect. Those who mean it, and are ready to pay with their lives to serve their communities.
They are heroes.
But, they need to speak out. They need to cross that Blue line, and call out those in their ranks that tarnish the badge they wear. They need to bring back the honor to uniform, by letting the public know that criminals within their ranks will not be shielded. Will not be protected. Will not be excused.
We all need to demand that. Black, White, Hispanic, American Indian, Asian, Cop, CD Seller, Judge, Cafeteria Worker, Mother, Father, Sister, Brother.
Together.
Enough.