Opinion: Owasso Police Dismissed Gang Violence as Black Families Mourn Lost Children

A Racist Post from a Police Department Sparks Outrage

A recent social media post from the Owasso Police Department (OPD) has sparked widespread criticism for its racially insensitive content. The post, which was meant to promote an upcoming community blood drive, drew comparisons to 1920s minstrel shows by using language and imagery that targeted the Black community in a harmful way.

The post read, “Whut up bluuud! We need it! Owasso Community Blood Drive We won’t ‘jump you in’, it’s just a little jab. Owasso Community Center – Wednesday, July 30th 11AM to 6PM.” This message, which included a racial slur and a reference to gang activity, was met with immediate backlash from residents and online commenters.

Owasso is a city in Oklahoma where Black people make up less than four percent of the population. Despite this, the police department chose to use a joke that not only reinforced harmful stereotypes but also added to the growing distrust between the community and law enforcement. In a time when many people are taking matters of police misconduct into their own hands, such actions can be seen as particularly dangerous.

Police officers have the power and authority to take lives, yet some choose to use racism as a tool for social engagement. This approach not only undermines the trust that should exist between the police and the communities they serve but also perpetuates a cycle of fear and hostility.

Black residents in Owasso are over three times more likely to face arrest for low-level, non-violent offenses than White residents. Instead of working to build trust, the OPD appears to be deepening the divide. By spreading hate and racial bias, the department risks putting its own officers in harm’s way. This kind of behavior contributes to the ongoing crisis of police violence, which saw 74 unarmed, mostly Black individuals killed by police in 2024 alone.

A Non-Apology That Fails to Address the Issue

In response to the backlash, the OPD issued a statement that many found insincere. The department wrote, “Well that got out of hand quickly! Our last blood drive post apparently offended a few people, certainly no intent to offend anyone, so apologies if you were offended.” This response, which many saw as a non-apology, did little to address the underlying issues raised by the post.

The original post was problematic on multiple levels. It associated Black people with gang activity, which is not only inaccurate but also insensitive to the many lives and families affected by gang violence. The attempt at humor fell flat and instead highlighted the department's lack of cultural awareness and sensitivity.

The History of Gang Violence and Its Impact on Black Communities

The history of gang violence in Black communities is deeply rooted in systemic issues. The Bloods, for example, originated in the 1970s in Los Angeles as a response to the Crips, who were terrorizing the community. These groups formed to protect themselves from the lawless violence of the Crips. However, in a nation where police failed to protect Black victims and society failed to provide Black youth with resources, opportunities, or a sense of belonging, gangs grew.

Both the Crips and the Bloods have caused devastating and deadly impacts on Black America. While exact numbers of gang-related deaths are difficult to determine due to varying reporting methods, it is clear that Black Americans suffer disproportionately. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control, Black Americans die from gun violence at 2.7 times the rate of white Americans. Roughly 13,000 Black people die from gun violence each year, including innocent bystanders in communities large and small.

The Need for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Owasso Police Department’s post highlights the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in modern society. Police departments must understand the historical context of their actions and the impact they have on the communities they serve. The OPD’s ignorance and lack of understanding demonstrate why DEI initiatives are essential in creating a more just and equitable system.

Even if someone does not see the post as racist or insensitive, one thing is certain: People are growing tired of police officers abusing their authority. Making jokes that target communities with justifiable distrust of the police is not only ignorant but also dangerous. It is a reminder that the consequences of such actions can be severe, with real-world implications that affect everyone involved.

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