Merged Image created from photographs I took in Larchmont, NY on 31 May 2020 (the squashed, torn and soiled American flag) and in Bridgeport, CT on 27 November 2014 (the graffiti message).

Racial injustice has been going on for too long in the USA. While it is sad to see the looting and arson, these are natural and tragic consequences to the endemic racism that continues to plague American society. This has to stop! Police reform is badly needed and in my opinion, it should start with instituting a mandatory policy of de-escalation. Physical force should only be used when violent crimes occur, for self-defense, and to protect life and property when imminent danger exists and to the minimal degree necessary. Suspected offenses like drug possession, open container violations, loitering, and with the case of George Floyd passing a counterfeit bill that he may not have even known was counterfeit based on the premise of "innocent until proven guilty," a right ALL Americans are guaranteed, should have resulted in no more than a written summons to appear in court to explain his side of the story. No handcuffs or arrest was necessary. And for those who say this is naive, I strongly disagree. It is possible with proper training, discipline and respect for the U.S. Constitution, legal framework, impartial justice that is blind to color and equal for all, and human rights.


#BlackOutTuesday 2 June 2020