Donald Trump responded in a predictable way to the protests across the nation demanding justice for George Floyd and other Black lives taken by the police. Mr. Trump said the following on Twitter and Instagram:
The outrage that followed came quickly and is still coming as Mr. Trump doubles down on his position. Journalist and activist Shaun King said on Facebook, "President Trump's calls for law enforcement to "dominate" protesters of police brutality is part of a long history of President Trump's support and enthusiasm for police brutality."
Pennsylvania Representative Malcolm Kenyatta, who won reelection yesterday, said on Twitter: "the country is on fire and Trump is suggesting turning 'vicious dogs' on protesters. Can Trump resign now and let @JoeBiden start early?"
Along with his online commentary, Trump is also facing backlash for his conduct at St. John's Episcopal Church.
"I am the bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington and was not given even a courtesy call that they would be clearing with tear gas so they could use one of our churches as a prop, holding a Bible, one that declares that God is love and when everything he has said and done is to enflame violence," said Bishop Mariann Budde to The Washington Post. "We hold the teachings of our sacred texts to be so so grounding to our lives and everything we do and it is about love of neighbor and sacrificial love and justice."
#Gaye family, stay safe! You can help by supporting the following organizations
Grassroots Law Project @grassroots_law co-founded by @shaunking
Emergency Release Fund - their goal is to ensure that no trans person at risk in New York City jails remains in detention before trial.
Mutual Aid Fund - Requests for aid are granted to women, trans and non-binary folks under 30 residing in Minnesota, priority given to those who are Black, Indigenous, people of color (BIPOC), queer, sick or disabled,undocumented, unemployed, and/or a parent or caretaker.