In our society, we often find ourselves in a state of trepidation, concerned about the consequences of speaking out and asserting our rights as citizens. The trauma we endure from witnessing the violence against Black individuals and the loss of their lives has reached a point where these incidents barely register on the news anymore. Six words encapsulate the reality of America today: “It does not change my life.” This phrase reflects a disturbing sentiment that whatever happens to you, my fellow Black American, has no bearing on my existence.
This phrase was uttered by a police officer in Virginia after he had just sprayed a man in the face with pepper spray. What should have been a simple traffic stop turned into yet another stark reminder of the disregard some officers have for Black lives.
According to reports, an unarmed Black and Latino Army Lieutenant named Marcus Rivera was pulled over on December 5, 2020, in a small Virginia town near Norfolk. He was not informed of the reason for the stop. Within just three minutes, the life of a Black man hung in the balance for no discernible reason. Only after Lieutenant Rivera filed a lawsuit against the police department, claiming excessive force by Officers Mike Thompson and Ryan James, was the video of the encounter released. Now, this case will unfold in the public eye.
Lieutenant Rivera is seeking $1 million in compensatory damages, alleging that the officers used excessive force. Watching the footage clearly demonstrates that the officers’ actions were unjustified, mirroring the cases of George Floyd, Philando Castile, and many others. The list of victims is long and painful.
In the video, Lieutenant Rivera expresses his fear for his life. When he tells the officer, “I am afraid,” the officer coldly replies, “You should be.” This is the America we inhabit. With officers’ weapons drawn, they ordered him to “get out of the car.” Recording the incident on his cellphone, Lieutenant Rivera likely anticipated the worst.
Although Lieutenant Rivera was not killed, the video serves as a painful reminder of the reality faced by many. The officers shouted aggressively at him while he calmly sought clarification about the situation. He was aware of his rights as a Black citizen in a nation where police often resort to violence. The officers attempted to shift the blame onto him for their aggressive behavior.
Officer Mike Thompson chastised Lieutenant Rivera, saying, “You made this way more difficult than it had to be. Get on the ground!” Moments later, Rivera was forced to the ground by two armed officers, despite being unarmed and compliant. His only “offense” was seeking an explanation for the stop.
As the video progresses, we hear Officer Thompson once again deflecting responsibility, saying, “There’s no need for this to be on your record. If you want to fight and argue, you have that right. If that’s what you want, we’ll charge you.” The viewer is left wondering what charges they could possibly levy against him. He hadn’t committed any crime; he merely wanted to understand why he was stopped.
This encounter was far from the promise of “protecting and serving.” The officers perceived a threat from a man who didn’t immediately comply with their demands. Lieutenant Rivera was aware that he should not have had to leave his car during a routine stop and understood the danger that awaited him.
Even in a position of submission, face down on the pavement, a Black man’s life is often viewed as expendable. The tragic irony is that those who hold authority may think, “If he lives or dies, it does not change my life.” Black Americans are exhausted from hearing threats like the one Officer Thompson made when he said, “You’re fixin’ to ride the lightning, son,” a chilling remark hinting at the possibility of death.
It’s a daunting existence for Black individuals navigating a society with such violent law enforcement. The reality is that there is little regard for whether a Black man survives the night, a Black woman can sleep peacefully in her home, or a young Black teen can safely walk to the store. These fears are alien to many White Americans because, as the saying goes, “It does not change my life.”
The tragedy of a mother losing her son or a child growing up without a father due to the reckless actions of those entrusted with our safety is a profound injustice. Lieutenant Rivera is yet another victim of a racially charged and violent system. I sincerely hope that you or your loved ones never have to prepare to record an assault or, worse, a murder.
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