John Legend slams Dallas shootings
John Legend has slammed the Dallas shootings and called for the arrest of Joe Walsh for threatening President Obama.
Five people, all believed to be US police officers, were killed in the Texan city last night following a peaceful rally against police brutality. Three suspects are in custody, while a fourth died after a stand-off, according to CNN.
Meanwhile, Walsh sparked outrage on Twitter with provocative comments he made as the situation was unfolding.
In a now-deleted tweet, the former Republican congressman told President Barack Obama to “watch out” and labelled members of the Black Lives Matter movement “punks”.
Legend called for peace on US streets and warned that change – and not retaliation – is the answer to the police brutality crisis in America, following the deaths of Alton Stirling and Philandro Castile.
“These Dallas shootings are horrific,” said the singer-songwriter. “Killing these officers is morally reprehensible and completely counterproductive to keeping us safe.
“Being against cops killing is not equal to being for killing cops. We need peace in our streets.”
And in one tweet, Legend addresses conservative radio host Walsh directly, telling him to “STFU” and calling for his arrest.
“Joe Walsh needs to be arrested for threatening our President. STFU @walshfreedom,” he said.
The Dallas shootings are believed to be in response to the deaths of Stirling and Castile, who were shot and killed by US police officers over the past few days.
Legend also took the opportunity to pledge his support and allegiance to the Black Lives Matter movement, following in the footsteps of celebrities such as Beyoncé and Jay Z.
