Dear Editor,

A painting hangs in the halls of Congress that depicts police officers as pigs pointing their pistols at African-Americans. The Congressional Black Caucus supports the display.

This hits home in the 2nd Congressional District. Investigator Anthony “TJ” Freeman was rammed by a suspect vehicle in Bibb County, Macon, on May 5, 2016 and died. Deputies Patrick Michael Sondron and Daryl Smallwood were gunned down in Peach County near Byron, on November 6, 2016 and died.  Officers Nicholas Ryan Smarr and Jody Carl Smith were gunned down in Sumter County, Americus on December 7, 2016 and died.

Five officers killed in the line of duty within a single year in the 2nd Congressional District.  These officers leave behind family, friends, and grieving communities across our district.   

No one would present the families of these men with a copy of this painting to express condolences.  Yet, its display in the halls of Congress, supports the contempt and disgrace this painting holds toward men and women who serve and protect. 

This is not about freedom of speech. This is a disgrace and embarrassment. Congressman Sanford Bishop should demand that the painting be removed.

Donald E. Cole