Police here must strongly condemn killing of Memphis man by officers, BLM London says

After the video of the beating death of a young Black father by police in Memphis, Tennessee, officers in southwestern Ontario are speaking out about the killing. 

But Black Lives Matter organizer Alexandra Kane says the "insensitive" message from London police is an example of just how differently the Black community and police officers see such events. 

"This letter [from London police] held no accountability. I was taken aback that they would send something like this. It's insensitive," Kane said. "They're talking about still celebrating Black history month. Don't talk about celebrating when a grown man was murdered." 

The police statement, sent to members of the Black community on Wednesday, called the video of the beating of Tyre Nichols, 29, "violent and disturbing" and offered the support of the London police diversity unit to people impacted by the video release. 

"I hope that this video does not overshadow the excellent celebrations we have planned for Black History Month or the many collaborations and unity we have created in the past," the statement, written by Staff Sgt. Robert Brown, goes on to say. 

Hours after CBC published this story with Kane's concerns, the London police chief released a new statement saying that the "London Police Service condemns any abuse of authority and excessive force or brutality against any person." 

But Kane said the original statement's call to keep celebrating black history month was uncalled for.

"As we navigate the aftermath together please ensure that you, your family and members of London's Black Community know that the London Police Service is here to assist and support you. I also offer my contact information to you and others to act as a liaison between the London Police and your agency in hopes that if there is a public gathering we can work together to ensure that all our communities can grieve together peacefully.  My condolences to you and your community."

Five Memphis officers were charged Thursday with murder and other crimes. Nichols, a motorist, died three days after a confrontation with the officers during a traffic stop on Jan. 7. Those who have seen the video say it shows a three-minute beating likened to the infamous 1991 police beating of Los Angeles motorist Rodney King. 

Windsor police's statement, written by Chief Jason Bellaire, outright condemns the actions of the Memphis officers. 

"The shocking incident has understandably sparked outrage and renewed discussions about police brutality and racial injustice." Bellaire wrote. "I was saddened and appalled by what happened, and on behalf of everyone at the Windsor Police Service, I unequivocally condemn the actions of the officers involved. The abhorrent actions of these officers run contrary to everything we believe in and stand for as a police service." 

"The Windsor Police Service reaffirms our commitment to ongoing engagement with community members, especially those from marginalized groups, to ensure we have the trust and confidence of the people we serve. Sometimes, this means having difficult and uncomfortable conversations about systemic racism that exists in policing and the justice system." 

Both Windsor and London police services are calling for any protests in the wake of the video's release to be peaceful, something that's not necessary, Kane said. 

"We've never held a demonstration that's been violent," she said. "Don't assume that our demonstrations won't be peaceful."