The Director of Michigan State Police is under fire over a social media post.
Activists are demanding Colonel Kriste Etue step down in the wake of her controversial post on Facebook.
In it she called NFL players “degenerates” for taking a knee to protest police brutality.
Progress Michigan said in a statement law enforcement should not attempt to divide the country further.
Read the complete statement below:
When such a high-ranking member of law enforcement feels compelled to share such broad, inaccurate, and shameful comments, their judgment can no longer be trusted to help protect Michigan’s diverse communities. Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue needs to step aside. Let’s set something straight: these protests are not about the flag or about veterans or the military, they are about speaking out against police brutality and injustice in communities of color across America. That is something that law enforcement should take to heart, not use to try to divide us further. Also, it’s important to note that it’s not just professional athletes taking a knee in solidarity — it’s high school kids, college students, cheerleaders, veterans, and people from all walks of life who are willing to bravely speak out against injustice in our society.
Colonel Etue issued the following statement through a Michigan State Police spokesperson:
It was a mistake to share this message on Facebook and I sincerely apologize to anyone who was offended. I will continue my focus on unity at the Michigan State Police and in communities across Michigan.
Editor's Note: An original version of this story incorrectly stated that Etue's post called black athletes "degenerates." That was incorrect and has since been updated to NFL players. We apologize for this error.
