They wear the blue uniform that symbolizes security
But protection for all citizens is not a surety.
It tends to shield them from criminal acts
By saying, “That Black Dude was a threat”
And that is that.
The blurred blue line.
They commit crimes against all minorities
Including those in blue uniforms
Oh, what a calamity.
Overtly and covertly they do their deeds
With protection from leaders who abide by the same creed
The blurred blue line.
They harass and discriminate against law abiding officers
Who take a stand and speak up about the unfair treatment of others.
Day in and day out the harassment continues
Where good officers drown their sorrows in drugs, alcohol, or permanent sleep.
Scolded, shunned, and ostracized
Feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and victimized
Good officers question their career path
And wonder if all has been for naught.
The blurred blue line.
I ask the meaning of “Benevolent”
It’s in the logo
Advocating love and harmony.
But the true reality is not as such
As many lives are gone due to a hateful bunch.
The blurred blue line.
But I say all is not lost
As there are those who will fight
No matter the cost.
Because if we choose to let them win
Humanity is lost
And that would be a sin.
The blurred blue line.
Dr. Michael Campbell is a resident of Howell. He is also a patrolman with the North Brunswick Police Department. This poem was written in response to Maya Angelou’s “The Mask,” adapted to reflect the internalized pain from which police officers may suffer.