Sacramento Mayor: “Implied Racism” an “Undeniable Factor” on Police Shootings

In the wake of the shooting death of Stephon Clark by Sacramento police, the city’s mayor said Wednesday that “implied racism” is behind police shootings. {snip}

“I do not believe our police force is racist in any way,” said Mayor Darrell Steinberg on CBSN. “I don’t think that’s intended but I do think that implied racism is an undeniable factor in the way these sorts of tragedies play out — not just in Sacramento but throughout the country.”

Steinberg expanded on this, saying that not just in law enforcement but “all of us” have “preconceived attitudes and stereotypes” that cause people to act differently “depending on the color of one’s skin.”

{snip}

Steinberg noted Wednesday that all the protests since Clark’s death have been peaceful, with just one arrest stemming from the demonstrations. Other protests have taken place outside the Golden 1 Center, which have caused the NBA’s Sacramento Kings to lock out some fans for what they said were safety concerns.

Steinberg said he feels the “anguish” and “trauma” of both the family and the community.

{snip} Steinberg said the police will be undergoing an “immediate” review of its policies, protocols and training around the shooting.

But Steinberg also noted some of the problems plaguing Sacramento — and cities all over the country — of increasing gentrification and the high cost of living that have pushed out communities, especially communities of color. “The conversation needs to be brought,” Steinberg said. “If it’s not a city for all, it’s not doing enough.”

While the White House said Wednesday that Clark’s death is a “local matter” for Sacramento, Steinberg said it is a “national matter” since there “horrific tragedies” have occurred throughout the country.

{snip}