Page 16 - December 2020

Communications Report
2020:
A year unlike any in recent memory
This has been a year unlike any we ourselves have ever known. The pandemic, remote learn- ing, rioting, looting, a fraught presidential elec- tion; the list goes on and on.
But something else that really has not been cov- ered in the media is the sheer number of police officers who have been shot or shot at in 2020.
As of Dec. 1, 71 officers have been shot or shot at in 2020, an astoundingly sorrowful increase in offenders brazenly attacking the men and women of the Chicago Police Department.
Superintendent David Brown has been highlighting this sobering fact to the public and the media: “At no point in recent memory have our Chicago Police Officers ever faced such a level of inherent danger while performing their duties. Yet they continue to bravely serve with honor each day and night.” Superintendent Brown is absolutely right. Our mem- bers are the ones who continue to bravely serve the people of Chicago.
But I wish that the media and, more importantly, our elected officials would recognize and highlight this painful increase in the attacks on our members all across the City. Police officers are the ones who work tirelessly day and night for the people of Chicago. The unfaltering efforts of our mem- bers are what separate the good people of Chicago from those who are intent on doing them harm. It would only be fitting if our elected officials and members of the media would rec- ognize the importance of our membership and demand that these attacks on our officers stop.
And as Christmas approaches, we know that our members may not be home to open presents with their families. Our members may not be home to watch as their kids wait for Santa’s arrival. These important milestones are missed be- cause Chicago Police Officers work tirelessly for the people of Chicago and risk everything to serve.
The 71 attacks on Chicago Police Officers are disgusting, and I pray that our elected officials and the media finally rec- ognize what has happened to our membership in 2020. It’s not too much to ask to expect their support and pray that these attacks come to an end.
“Lord God, let me never forget that the police officer stands watch between the powers of hell and your people. Strength- en my sense of courage, duty and humor during this tour, keep me safe in body and spirit, and bring me home safely. Amen.”
MICHAEL CARROLL
16 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ DECEMBER 2020