Following the violent clashes for the last four days that have erupted due to the shooting of 18-year old Michael Brown by the police, Obama called for ‘peace and calm’.
Earlier this week, the President first expressed his deepest condolences in regard to the Michael Brown shooting, in saying, “I know the events of the past few days have prompted strong passions, but as details unfold, I urge everyone in Ferguson, Missouri, and across the country, to remember this young man through reflection and understanding. We should comfort each other and talk with one another in a way that heals, not in a way that wounds. Along with our prayers, that’s what Michael and his family, and our broader American community, deserve.
He also said that he was briefed on the situation by the Attorney-General Eric Holder based on which he has also instructed federal law enforcement officials to help restore order in Ferguson, Missouri.
In his statement, the President clearly stated that while there is no excuse for violence, there aren’t any excuses for police to use excessive force against peaceful protesters either.
Apart from criticizing the Ferguson police for arresting two journalists at a McDonalds, he also said that law enforcement personnel have to be responsible in being transparent and open about the death of Michael Brown.
Speaking in a televised statement from Martha’s Vineyard, where he is currently on vacation, the President said this is the time for healing even if emotions are still raw in Ferguson as we are all one big American family.