SFPD just issued a short, to-the-point notice of a special public town hall meeting with Chief Gascón to address the recent increase in violent crimes against Asian citizens by criminal youth, primarily from the Black community. The Chief denies the attacks have been racially motivated, but a growing number of observers are questioning the Chief's opinion.
Some say the Chief is trying to keep a lid on tensions by rejecting any possible racist connection and say the Chief is in denial.
Others say it is much too early to reach any conclusions about the origin and intent of the perpetrators. Too many questions have not yet been answered. The investigation being conducted is very thorough and has not yet been completed. Our community needs a little time.
It does not serve the people of San Francisco to fan the flames of hate. We do that when we cry "hate crime!" without having clear evidence to support our cry.
Come to the meeting Tuesday, May 11th and listen to the Chief. Ask him questions. State your opinions. Be prepared for fireworks, but hope for peace.
Most importantly, we need to listen to our neighbors and engage them in conversation. Two people talking tends to nurture peace.
Here's the SFPD announcement:
San Francisco Police Chief George Gascón will conduct a Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, May 11, at the Southeast Community College, 1800 Oakdale Avenue, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. The meeting will focus on recent crime in the Asian community.
For further information please contact the San Francisco Police Department Community Relations Unit by calling , or e-mailing the unit at .
Photo by Justin Sullivan / Getty Images North America
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