First Black Police Chief Of Minnesota Town Apologizes For Posting ‘Thin Blue Line’ Flag

In an effort to fight alleged racism, the first chief black police officer in a Minnesota city was hired. apologized After uploading an image of a “Thin Blue Line Flag” on the department’s Facebook page.

The flag’s blue line is meant to symbolize law enforcement. It stands between the lines, which represent citizenry and order, as well as what is below it, which represents crime and anarchy.

This image was uploaded by Chief Police Officer Virgil Green as part of National Law Enforcement Appreciation day.

“The Golden Valley Police Department, like so many other departments across Minnesota, posted a social media message recognizing this important day for the men and women who serve their communities, including our very own Golden Valley police officers,” Green wrote. “Our social media post also included an image of the thin blue line flag. While the post was intended to thank our police officers, it appears the image offended some who viewed it. For this, I sincerely apologize.”

“For many, the thin blue line flag has always represented a way to honor the commitment we make as first responders to protect our community,” He went on. “It is disappointing that in recent years the flag’s positive intention has been tarnished with divisive undertones and actions. We do not want to promote these negative connotations.”

Green encouraged the community then to research the origins of the flag.

“While I do not want to go into detail about the purpose of the thin blue line flag, I encourage those interested to click the attached link to learn about the history of the flag and the intent of its creator,” He said. 

After removing an admonitory note, the Los Angeles Police Department has been harshly criticised. “Thin Blue Line” After receiving one complaint from a member of the community, flag was removed from one station.

One complaint was filed alleging that the flag reflected extremist views. The flag was placed above the Rampart police station’s front desk.

The flag’s “display in our public lobbies can be divisive,” LAPD Police Chief Michel Moore stated In response to the complaint

“It’s unfortunate that extremist groups have hijacked the use of the ‘Thin Blue Line Flag’ to symbolize their undemocratic, racist, and bigoted views,” He went on. “Flags serve as powerful symbols with specific meanings. The ‘Thin Blue Line Flag’ to me presents the honor, valor, dedication, and sacrifice of law enforcement to protect our communities. Tragically, that view is not universally held and others have been able to persuade the public it symbolizes racist, bigoted and oppressive values.”

“Given our lobbies should be places that people feel safe, free of political ideology, and welcoming, it remains our long-standing policy that only official items be displayed,” He concluded.

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