Summerville Police Chief Douglas Wright issued a strong statement condemning racist and hateful comments left on the department’s social media posts celebrating Black History Month.
The department had been highlighting Black police officers and employees in a Facebook post as part of its recognition of Black History Month. However, some users responded with offensive remarks, prompting Wright to address the situation directly.
“The Summerville Police Department is committed to humanizing the badge and breaking down barriers by recognizing our police officers, telecommunicators, and civilian personnel as peacekeepers who keep our community safe,” Wright said. “We will not pander to ignorant, racist comments toward my police officers or employees.”
Wright emphasized the department’s pride in its Black employees and reiterated the importance of diversity in law enforcement.
“I want to showcase these fine examples of professional employees who serve our community and recruit more minorities to this noble profession,” he said. “Our agency needs to reflect the demographics of the citizens we serve.”
The chief also addressed those who left hateful comments, stating they should focus on self-improvement rather than attacking those who serve and protect.
“Shame on the detestable few who want to cast shade with their hateful rhetoric,” he said. “They need to spend more time working on themselves and how to be a more productive member of society rather than tearing down others who put their lives on the line.”
Wright reaffirmed the department’s commitment to maintaining a respectful online space and enforcing its social media comment policy, which prohibits hate speech and discriminatory remarks.
“We are not silencing people, but hate speech is forbidden,” he said. “The comment policy is posted on our social media, and if one posts hate speech or racist comments, they will be removed.”
Wright thanked the commenters who expressed support and appreciation for officers and staff.
This article was originally published by a www.postandcourier.com . Read the Original article here. .