“All Lives Matter” Last night I had the privilege to be one of the panelists at a public forum which was hosted by Racial Harmony. The theme of the meeting was “All Lives Matter! Protecting our Future Together.” The forum was comprised of representatives from the “Community” at large. The panel included business owners, students, political dignitaries, a counselor, states attorney, a retired judge, pastor, and two police chiefs. It was well attended and moderated by Robert Wells, a local attorney. The open and honest dialogue that prevailed allowed everyone to listen and “hear” the viewpoints and different perspectives from the members on the panel. There were no hard, fast solutions; but it was a beginning to a possible journey that can build an understanding between communities of people. Jerril Jones, the President of the Center for Racial Harmony, was a driving force in organizing the event and did an excellent job of bringing the panel and guests together. The event was a great experience, and I look forward to representing the O’Fallon Police Department at future meetings. The Belleville News Democrat covered the event and included a quote from me in the article. O’Fallon Police Chief Eric Van Hook said police departments “need to stop painting people with broad strokes. We’re painting people into corners. We have to stop judging people and start valuing other people’s opinions.” This quote was taken out of context and is not an accurate reflection of my statement. Their quote indicates this is a law enforcement induced problem and that is not what I stated. This was a Community based forum that was established to discuss Community based problems that will require the entire Community to be a part of the solution. The challenges we are facing were not created in a vacuum and are not going to be solved by any one segment of a community alone. The solution requires participation at all levels of the community. I do believe that, “When describing people, and or professions, if society paints with a broad stroke, society runs the risk of painting them into a corner. This can inherently evoke a defensive response which impedes or eliminates the opportunity for successful communication.” This is an emotionally charged topic and needs to be reported accurately with facts, not opinions, and should avoid gross generalizations about any one group or profession. The pathway to open communication will begin when we (society) stop judging each other and learn to value the opinions of others. At times we will need to “Agree to Disagree.” This open communication will reduce the misunderstandings between community members, community leaders, and law enforcement. As I stated last night, “There is no profession in this country that is without sin, and that includes law enforcement”. However, the “painting with a broad stroke” viewpoint has unjustly characterized the actions of law enforcement officers and protesters. Where did this false perception of widespread police killings of citizens, or that all protesters want to loot and burn down communities originate? Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but I would also encourage you to “seek the truth” and be willing to view all sides of an issue. “All Lives do Matter”, and I feel fortunate to have been included in last night’s forum. I look forward to working with the other members on the panel to identify solutions that will improve the quality of life for all members in our community. Regards, Chief Eric Van Hook
Posted on: Fri, 16 Jan 2015 22:25:27 +0000
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