Jewish American Heritage Month

Posted By simmons on September 15, 2015

We are deeply saddened by the death of Freddie Gray and extend our condolences to family, friends and community members. Freddie Grays death while in police custody is deeply troubling, and the Justice Department investigation currently underway is both important and timely. His death comes in the wake of the deaths of a number of other black civilians at the hands of police officers, but at this point it is not possible to know what role if any race played.

Law enforcements alleged mistreatment of Freddie Gray has understandably created anger in Baltimore. Residents certainly have the right to express their anger in the form of peaceful protests. The First Amendment, however, in no way sanctions violence, looting or other criminal activity. The attacks on police officers and others, looting of neighborhood stores and businesses and burning of housing intended for senior citizens in the aftermath of Mr. Grays funeral were outrageous and despicable. The perpetrators of these acts took advantage of the City of Baltimores efforts at restraint and respect for protest to commit theft, arson and assault. Tragically, they have devastated the very community where Mr. Gray lived.

We echo Mr. Grays familys call for all demonstrators to refrain from violence and destruction and to return to peaceful protests. We need to find ways as a society to address police misconduct, to address legitimate concerns and also to support police who are trying to do their job in difficult circumstances. Violence is never the answer.

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Category: Jewish American Heritage Month
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