Fear Is The Absence Of Faith
The aftermath of the death of George Floyd has sparked worldwide protests against police brutality and injustices served against people of color. Much criticism and perspectives surrounding the efficacy of law enforcement has developed in conversation especially in social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. With all the craziness ravaging the airwaves, it’s a sigh of relief when we get a heartwarming story of a young girl who met with an emotional officer.
This fateful encounter reveals the fear that most people share in a tumultuous time of civil unrest, but also to demonstrate both sides coming together in the name of brotherhood and equality for all. You don’t want to miss what comes next.
Nevaea Brown, a 10-year-old little girl from West Seneca, supports the Black Lives Matter Movement and has been brave enough to publicly go out and show support. After witnessing the incessant violence on the streets, she became fearful of law enforcement and her thoughts became to shift in regards to the folks in blue.
“Nobody could survive in a chokehold for like longer than ten minutes,” said Nevaea, “I just wanted to be there for Floyd because it’s just not fair.” Her mother added, “She said she wanted to peacefully protest,” said Nevaea’s mom D’Andra Brown.
Not All Blue Are Bad
Nevaea’s heritage traces back to Jamaica where her family has a history of participating in law enforcement. Her mom didn’t want her daughter thinking that those people who have sworn an oath to serve and protect would cause this much destruction. Things would soon change when she met with New York State Police Officer Janine Kloetzer.
“As I approached she kind of froze up, looked very terrified, and put her hands up,” said Officer Kloetzer.
Officer Kloetzer was surprised and knew she had to act and say something. It wasn’t her police badge guiding her, but mainly the motherly spirit that called her to action.
“It just broke my heart to see how terrified she looked just to see the police car,” Officer Kloetzer said, “I would be horrified if my children had to go through that same type of situation of being terrified just walking around in a park.”
United We Stand
Officer Kloetzer comforted Nevaea and told her she didn’t have to feel afraid about seeing all officers in public. The tear-jerking moment was captured on tape as the two interacted publicly. It has been since shared over 23,000 times! We’re glad to see this message of equality spread amongst other people.
It further proves why taking an empathetic approach is the best way to resolve issues when there are groups of people needing a just voice.
Ever since their interaction, Navaea has come to accept the idea that not all police officers are not out to commit these terrible hate crimes. “I just thought it was good that not all police officers are bad,” said Nevaea. “I did not expect it at all. I’m glad in a way it did because at least we get to see some positivity. and that’s what we want,” D’Andra said.
The two further emphasized their stance when Kloetzer said, “That one-on-one human interaction is where it all kind of has to start,”. To which Nevaea responded with “Not all officers are bad.” This is exactly the behavior we all should follow. At the end of the day, we’re all in this together. You can catch the entire exchange on video right here.
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