Mankato Public Safety Politicizes Floyd Murder
August 3rd, 2020 Mankato City Council streamed a Zoom call on Police reform. I suggest you find that video, watch it yourself and form your own opinion.
The stream consisted of regular police political talk, apart from needing to improve their “sharing or disseminating data and statistics” no specific issues were addressed. Issues were alluded to by talking about existing reforms, de-escalation measures, diversity panels and bringing in social workers through partnerships.
The unmentioned issue of course being police brutality, accountability and the scope of police responsibilities extending far beyond their skill set. The most recent calls for accountability, reform, defunding or abolition were brought on by the murder of George Floyd.
George Floyd’s death was referred to as “the video”, “the issues” and “the protest” when Public Safety Director Amy Vokal attempted to frame her department as protectors of free speech and supporters of the movement. The first time Vokal used Floyd’s name was to condemn anarchists who she claimed used his name to incite violence by encouraging people to bring bats and medical supplies. The second time Vokal invoked Floyd’s name was to distance her department from the actions of Derek Chauvin and condemn his behavior as an individual.
The third and final usage was in passing.
It is difficult to interpret use of Floyd’s name as anything greater than an emotional lever when it is used so carefully to condemn or dismiss the behavior of others. This is particularly evident in a stream over an hour in length designed to address reforms within the institution of Mankato Public Safety.
To Mankato Public Safety: when you use George Floyd’s name I hope you understand that to many members of the public your officers are indistinguishable from those who killed him. I hope going forward you can learn to respect those who have died at your hands and at the hands of your peers. I hope you can learn to respect the mistrust that some members of the community feel in your presence and lastly I hope you adopt a more honest narrative when addressing the public.
