Editor’s Note: The following open letter to the community was submitted to Now Habersham by Clarkesville Police Chief Brad Barrett.
I am aware of the possible demonstrations that are scheduled for our small wonderful community. We are doing our best to prepare and plan for the unknown, and I know that tensions are running high right now. I encourage everyone to demonstrate peacefully and encourage all to exercise restraint from violent anger.
My heart breaks for our nation – for our communities – for all of our people experiencing agonizing pain during this horrific time. Most of all, my heart breaks for the family of George Floyd, and for all that have had to endure the pain of losing a loved one to police brutality or systemic racism. My eyes and ears are open – I hear you – I see you – I care deeply about you.
I believe wholeheartedly in police/justice reform and accountability. I believe in complete justice for those who have wrongfully deprived the life and liberty of another based on the color of their skin. I believe strongly in peaceful protest and demonstration for what we believe in. I will stand with you – I will stand beside you. I will support you in every way possible. I simply and humbly ask that we let our voices be heard through peaceful productive dialogue and demonstration – Peaceful reasoning over senseless violence. Let us stand together in unified solidarity for all who have suffered injustice.
I am as flawed as any individual to walk this earth. I admit this to you today, and I offer you no good reason to listen to me. I could never right my own mistakes in life. None of us can. No one can undo what has happened over the past couple of weeks. One thing we can do, however, is to make the choice to learn and change. Examine ourselves from the inside out. We can vow to be a better human being. I want and desire this so badly for all.
From my part, I vow to uphold the rights of all, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, or any other differences that may exist. I vow to protect our community and to learn each and every day to make a change – to be better than I was yesterday. Continuously learn to be a better police officer, a better police chief, and above all, a better human being.
There are no words that could ever bring comfort or justice to those that are hurting right now, but it is my sincere hope and prayer that we learn, heal, and love one another. I pray for complete peace, solidarity, and equality for all of God’s children.
May God bless and keep all of you safe and well during this time.
Brad Barrett
Chief of Police – Clarkesville Police Department
