“I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal."

These words were said by Martin Luther King Jr., just over 50 years ago. Why does it seem like we have gone back in time, instead of moving forward? We are all created equal, we are all human, why is that so hard to understand? The color of someone’s skin isn’t something that should change the way we view them, it’s all about what is inside. I cannot stress enough how much of a waste of time and energy it is to fight someone and discriminate against them because they simply look different than you do.

No, it is not okay that some police officers treat civilians differently than others. No, it is not okay that some civilians think it is okay to disrespect police officers. Is it that hard for all police officers to treat everyone equally? And all civilians to respect police officers? The reason all of this is happening is because both sides are in a constant state of fear. The only way everyone can stop being fearful is if everyone is treated equally, it’s plain and simple. A police officer’s job is to serve and protect all civilians, every single one.

Here is the first paragraph of the "Law Enforcement Code of Ethics:" “As a Law Enforcement Officer, my fundamental duty is to serve mankind; to safeguard lives and property; to protect the innocent against deception, the weak against oppression or intimidation, and the peaceful against violence or disorder; and to respect the Constitutional rights of all men to liberty, equality and justice.” This is a police officer’s duty, it is their job. And in order for them to successfully do their job, we have to let them do it. No one should be afraid to do the things they need to do everyday and wonder if they are going to die. Living in fear is no longer an option.

If everyone wants to be treated equally, then we all need to treat each other equally.