The decision to “honor” Antwon Rose Jr. by displaying his name on Steelers helmets is unfortunate. Contrary to popular opinion, Rose was not shot after stealing a bag of pretzels from the corner grocery store. Immediately before the unfortunate police encounter, evidence suggests Rose was a participant in a botched “drive-by shooting,” an attempt to kill a person in broad daylight in a neighborhood inhabited by innocent men, women and children.
This brazen act of violence is now being minimized and memorialized by placing Rose’s name on the helmets of an NFL team. I don’t believe Rose was the victim of any racial injustice. A jury determined that the police officer was justified in using deadly force, given the totality of the circumstances.
Since 2001, there have been 19 law enforcement officers in Western Pennsylvania killed in the line of duty. Perhaps the Steelers could more appropriately display the name of one of our fallen servants who have dedicated their lives to the protection of the public.
As a season-ticket holder, I find the kneeling and other clumsy attempts by the Steelers organization to inject itself into politics to be quite offensive.
Henry Miller III
Murrysville