The Mehserle Case has been in the news for a while- but just for recap… Bart Cop shot a man while he was laying on the ground in a crowded station on New Years. Yesterday he was convicted- Involuntary Manslaughter- which many feel is a slap on the wrist for such a documented crime. Obviously there are problems with this case but here are my main complaints:
1. In every article leading up to the trial… the reporter weirdly stated the race of Mehserle and Grant, the victim.
“Mehserle who is white. Grant who is black”
Literally, just like that, all the time. I mean we can see the pictures, I know that race plays a huge role- but really…. it just seems like they are stirring the pot by constantly reminding us about their race. Making the issue represent some under current racial problems Oakland has. Which could be true or which could be far from it.
2. There were no black people on the jury. If every one is making this into a race issue let’s fucking mix the pot. Also shouldn’t the jury represent the dynamic of the city? Hello, Oakland is one third black.
3. The riots… foot locker? Really guys?! Way to play is super stereotypical…
4. Anarchist- you have to organize a ride to come from another city to perform chaos in Oakland… that’s not anarchy. Hey do us a favor and just go work at the your daddy’s law firm… we don’t need your privileged anger.
5. This is a quote from the San Francisco Chronicle, “Many of those arrested were “anarchist” agitators who were not from Oakland and wore bandannas, hoods or black face paint, police said.” Why is THIS the image they choose to go along side the article…