WASHINGTON, June 4, 2020 (BSS/AFP) – Former US president Barack Obama on
Wednesday applauded the “profound” protests by Americans demanding racial
justice and said demonstrations over last week’s killing of a black man in
police custody could spark nationwide reforms.
In his first video comments since George Floyd’s death on May 25 in
Minneapolis triggered unrest across the country, President Donald Trump’s
predecessor also urged state and local authorities to review their policies on
use of force.
Obama directed his comments at young black men and women who he says have
often witnessed or experienced too much violence.
“Too often some of that violence has come from folks who were supposed to
be serving and protecting you,” Obama said in a webcast with activists.
“I want you to know that you matter. I want you to know that your lives
matter, your dreams matter.”
He also said that in the last few weeks, Americans have witnessed “the
kinds of epic changes and events in our country that are as profound as
anything that I’ve seen in my lifetime.”
The 58-year-old, who remains popular among Democrats, noted the deadly
upheaval of the 1960s civil rights movement, and said “a far more
representative cross-section of America” is protesting now than as compared to
half a century ago.
“There is a change in mindset that’s taking place, a greater recognition
that we can do better,” Obama said.
Young protesters in particular have been galvanized, he said, and their
motivation could serve as inspiration for broader change.
“It’s very important for us to take the momentum that has been created as a
society, as a country, and say ‘Let’s use this’ to finally have an impact,”
Obama said.
He also addressed the country’s local leaders, saying “I’m urging every
mayor in this country to review your use-of-force policies with members of
your community and commit to report on planned reforms.”
Obama did not directly address Trump’s handling of the unrest, including
the president’s controversial demand that authorities “dominate” protesters.
But Obama was reportedly outraged by the use of chemical dispersants on
protesters outside the White House Monday before Trump walked to a nearby
church and held up a Bible.