Posted by Todd (216.199.4.58) on May 28, 2000 at 00:02:02:
In Reply to: 1st amendment+ I had no idea you were a police officer jimi posted by Gary on May 27, 2000 at 21:51:27:
just where in the First Amendment it says you are entitled to be rude, offensive, insulting, demeaning and prejudiced in a public forum?
As I understand it, the First Amendment says:
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Grow up, Gary. The term you used, and the comments you made, referencing police officers was a form of prejudice. When you lump a group of people together, based on a common trait, and then demean the entire group, your are indulging in prejudicial behavior.
Sure, I've met a few cops who probably shouldn't be police officers. I can say the same about lawyers, doctors, accountants, cable installers, house painters, etc, etc, etc.
JimH, let me repeat for the forum the comment I made to you in chat---
You, sir, have handled yourself impeccably in this matter and are to be commended. You clearly typify the characteristics we, the citizenry which you have chosen to protect, look and hope for in our law enforcement agents - the ability to keep a calm head and even temper, even in the face of uncalled for insult.
Even in these days when the 'blue wall of silence' seems to have been torn down by the scrutiny of the media and public, I see far more news reports of slain officers than I do of corrupt ones. Most often, those officers who gave their lives did so protecting our mothers, sisters, daughters, fathers, brothers, sons and loved ones.
So what's next, Gary? A diatribe against the underpaid teachers who struggle to educate our children with oversized classes, outdated textbooks and supplies they buy out of their own pockets?
I really don't believe I like you.
T