Minneapolis city officials praised a group of ‘freedom fighters’ who started patrolling the streets to protect local businesses, demonstrators, and black heritage since George Floyd’s death.
The Minnesota Freedom Fighters have patrolled Minneapolis during protests, carrying Glocks and AR-15s and wearing bandannas and tactical vests.
The city called men’s actions ‘commendable.’
Director of the city’s Office of Violence Prevention Sasha Cotton said to Los Angeles Times: “It’s important to have men from the community step up for the community.
“It’s their right to be out on the streets and it’s commendable. There are black residents who in the early days of the unrest felt vulnerable … and still do.”
The group, who include a veteran, a healthcare worker, and a retired firefighter, have been patrolling the city regularly and act as security for demonstrators.
They are also in touch with precinct commanders and have met with Police Chief Medaria Arrandoro, The Times reported.
Their mission statement reads: “Our objective is not to be the police, but the bridge to link the police and the community together.”
“We are creating a network of people who will disseminate information through relational organizing (an information tree), support on the ground protestors through giving rides from the protests, giving first-aid help, and protect black heritage sites from destruction,” the original statement from the NAACP said.
Rev. Tim Christopher also said he felt relieved to see the men patrolling around. “It’s been a breath of fresh air,” he expressed. “Seeing an armed black man — knowing he is here to take care of the community, nurture the community — is a blessing.”
The Minneapolis NAACP has welcomed the group and said they wish for them to grow as community leaders.
The chapter’s president, Leslie Redmond, said: “These brothers were there in the beginning, when threats were being made by white supremacists.
“There is no doubt they stepped up for the community.”
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Replaced!