At a time when the need for change is long overdue, police forces across America are witnessing a retaliation against years and years of police brutality against the Black community. Though Minneapolis and other cities are being heavily policed with protesters dealing with excessive force by law enforcement, a police Sheriff in Flint, MI took a different approach.

Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson joined protesters in the Flint Township where he shared an uplifting message to everyone in attendance. “The only reason we’re here is to make sure you got a voice. That’s it. Don’t think for a second that he represents who these cops are from all over the county,” he said. “We got out there to help people not to do that nonsense.”

He added, “We want to be with y’all for real. I took my helmet off, they laid their batons down. I want to make this a parade, not a protest.” 

The police officer assured those that were in attendance that they were there to help in any way that they’re able to. As people began chanting “Walk With Us,” Sheriff Swanson began signaling protesters to walk with him.

“This is the way it’s supposed to be … police working with the community,” he said. “When we see injustice, we call it out on the police side and on the community side.  All we had to do was talk to them, and now we’re walking with them.”