by Kevin Zimmermann
SHEBOYGAN, WI (WHBL) – While Sheboygan County’s community might lack the diversity of many others, racism and the injustice it that it causes can’t be ignored here, and what happened to George Floyd should never happen anywhere in this country. That’s the message issued by Sheboygan County Board Chairman Vernon Koch in a statement sent yesterday. And as peaceful protesters here join the chorus of others across the country, Sheriff Cory Roeseler joined Koch in support of local activists. The Sheriff stated: “I am very proud of the peaceful actions that are taking place in Sheboygan County.”
At the same time as they condemned Floyd’s death by Minneapolis police, they similarly condemned violent response, saying that the riots and violence experienced in many other areas is saddening and gives support to those who resist any change. They added that protesters should be mindful of the risks of spreading COVID-19, urging them to wear masks, remember social distancing and hand washing to reduce the risks.
Here is the full statement from Cty. Board Chair Vernon Koch: I have held back on issuing a comment because this is a time for elected officials to listen. I feared an earlier statement may come across as an empty statement. Although our community is not as diverse as others, we cannot ignore racism or the injustice that it causes. What happened in Minneapolis to George Floyd is simply wrong and should never happen anywhere in this country. I support peaceful protest as a means to bring recognition to injustice. I cannot support those that would use this cause as a reason to commit crimes that hurt other citizens. This will damage the message and give support to those that wish to resist any change. I respectfully ask that protesters be mindful of the current COVID-19 pandemic by remembering to social distance, wear masks, and frequently wash your hands. You will not be helping the cause by exposing yourself, or others, to illness. I have also discussed this with Sheboygan County Sheriff Cory Roeseler, who stated: “Our agency is outraged by the events that happened last week in Minnesota. The actions of those four officers were deplorable and should not define how we judge law enforcement as a whole. The family of George Floyd is in our thoughts and prayers.” “I am very proud of the peaceful actions that are taking place in Sheboygan County but I am saddened by the riots and looting that take place nightly in other areas of our state and country. We need to make sure the memory of George Floyd is not overshadowed by the actions of those who do not follow the peaceful demonstrations.”
