White House says more Black Lives Matter protests ‘a good thing’

As police departments across the country geared up for more Black Lives Matter demonstrations, the White House on Thursday called the street protests “a good thing.”

(Article by Dave Boyer)

Military bases posted warnings to personnel to stay away from public gathering spots Friday evening in 37 cities such as the Gateway Arch in St. Louis “due to potential protests and criminal activity.” Others said the online call for a “Day of Rage” across the U.S. is likely a hoax.

Law enforcement officials acknowledge they are on edge after the assassinations of five police officers in Dallas last week at a Black Lives Matter demonstration and the arrests in the past week of hundreds of people in major cities protesting the shooting deaths of two black men by police in Louisiana and Minnesota.

White House press secretary Josh Earnest said the Black Lives Matter protests — as long as they are peaceful — could help bring reforms in police departments.

“I would not describe the White House as concerned about these protests,” Mr. Earnest said.

“They’re exercising their freedom of speech, they’re exercising their freedom of assembly. That’s a good thing. That’s a good start.”

President Obama took part in a televised town hall meeting in Washington with minority youths, parents, police and others to discuss problems with policing, including bias. The program was scheduled to air Thursday night.

Read more at: washingtontimes.com