Calls for change at Black Lives Matter event | KTUL – KTUL
North Tulsa community members met in a show of unity following the police shooting of Joshua Barr (KTUL).
The scenes of the crowd's reaction following the shooting illustrates a feeling percolating in the community.
"Tulsa is divided, it's scary," said Betty Smith.
Saturday's scene was one of connection and reflection at an event put together by Black Lives Matter.
"The community is hurt, tired, discouraged, disappointed," said Mareo Johnson, looking for real change and reform.
"I would like to see more of an Afro-American presence of officers on the north side community. Also, body cams on officers at all times," he said.
"I know myself and others have talked about a citizen review board," said former Tulsa school board member Dr. Lana Turner-Addison, also urging the city to address the current environment.
"I think the mayor, the city of Tulsa, has to really look at what appears to be a systemic problem and, you know, what are perceived as real. In the minds of the community of north Tulsa, it's real," she said.
Case in point...
"I feel like basically it is a race thing, even though they say it is not a racial thing, it is," said Sheila Miller, putting into words what many in the African American community feel.
"It is a double standard, there is a difference when there should be no difference, when we're all of the same race, and that's the human race," she said.
Meanwhile, also out at the gathering...
"I'm not afraid to face people in my own community and answer questions," said Tulsa Police Sergeant Dedlorn Sanders, walking a tightrope and tackling perceptions by simply doing the job the best he can.
"I just try to be fair and neutral with everybody, because I can see both sides," he said.
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Calls for change at Black Lives Matter event | KTUL - KTUL