There is a change of mindset taking place, said Obama. (File)
Washington:
Former US President Barack Obama applauded “deep” protests by Americans demanding racial justice on Wednesday and said protests over the murder of a black man in police custody last week could trigger far-reaching reforms national.
In his first video comments since George Floyd’s May 25 death in Minneapolis sparked unrest across the country, President Donald Trump’s predecessor also urged state and local authorities to review their policies on the use of force .
Obama addressed his comments to young black men and women who he says have often witnessed or been victims of too much violence.
“Too often, some of this violence has come from people who were supposed to serve and protect you,” Obama said in a webcast with activists.
“I want you to know that you matter. I want you to know that your life matters, your dreams count.”
He also said that over the past few weeks, Americans have witnessed “the types of epic changes and events in our country that are as profound as anything I have seen in my lifetime.”
The 58-year-old, who remains popular with Democrats, noted the murderous upheaval of the civil rights movement in the 1960s and said that a “much more representative sample of America” was now protesting over him. half a century ago.
“There is a change of mindset happening, more recognition that we can do better,” said Obama.
Young protesters in particular were galvanized, he said, and their motivation could serve as inspiration for wider change.
“It is very important for us to take the momentum created as a society, as a country, and say” Let’s use this “to finally make an impact,” said Obama.
He also addressed local leaders in the country, saying, “I urge all mayors of this country to review your use of force policies with members of your community and to commit to reporting on planned reforms. . “
Obama has not directly addressed Trump’s handling of the unrest, including the President’s controversial request that authorities “dominate” the protesters.
But Obama was reportedly outraged by the use of chemical dispersants on protesters outside the White House on Monday before Trump went to a nearby church and held up a Bible.
(With the exception of the title, this story was not edited by GalacticGaming staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
