In the wake of Davis Police Officer Natalie Corona's death, a photo of the 22-year old in a blue dress waving a Thin Blue Line flag has gone viral on social media. While many are sharing the image as a memorial to the young officer, others are taking offense.
A student government group at UC Davis quickly spoke out against the photo. The Ethnic and Cultural Affairs Commission called it "triggering” in a Facebook post that's since been deleted.
Tanya Faison of Black Lives Matter agrees with the students’ sentiment.
“It’s a declaration in response to Black Lives Matter,” said Faison. “It’s a cooption of our movement to lift the people that are killing us.”
Former Sacramento County Sheriff, now KFBK Talk Show Host, John McGinness says the flag isn't in any way related.
“The Blue Lives Matter concept is one that is supportive of and, I think, an expression to the work that law enforcement officers do,” McGinness added.
UC Davis issued the following statement:
“Both the president and vice president of the Associated Students of the University of California, Davis (ASUCD) published statements in response to the post made by the Ethnic and Cultural Affairs Commission (ECAC). They’re clear in their wording that ECAC does not speak for all UC Davis students. The ECAC comments are also not representative of UC Davis. At the same time, students have the right to exercise free speech; those rights are protected under both federal and state laws. The students have not violated any policy, and we have no basis upon which to expel or otherwise discipline the students.
UC Davis strongly supports and values law enforcement. We are grateful for those who serve and protect the public at any cost.
We mourn the loss of City of Davis Police Officer Natalie Corona and honor her dedication to protecting our community. This is a difficult time for all of us, as we are deeply connected to the City of Davis and share in grieving this incredible young woman.”