The term “pig” when used to refer to police officers is a highly charged and divisive word. While many in law enforcement and their supporters view it as offensive and disrespectful, its usage persists, as seen in a recent protest in Omaha. This article delves into the reasons behind this derogatory term and explores the controversy surrounding its use.
The recent event that brought this issue to the forefront in Omaha involved the Revolutionary Action Party (RAP), a local organization advocating for prison abolition. RAP organized a “pig roast” protest targeting the Omaha Police Officers’ Association (OPOA). This protest was in response to controversial mailers from the OPOA aimed at former City Council candidate Cammy Watkins. The mailers, criticized for their racially charged imagery, fueled further tensions between the community and the police.
During the “pig roast” event at Montclair Park, near the OPOA union hall, RAP speakers voiced their concerns about police violence in the community. The protest culminated in a march to OPOA headquarters where participants scattered severed pig heads adorned with makeshift police hats on the property.
RAP provided context for their use of the term “pig,” referencing the Revolutionary Black Panther Party’s analysis. According to RAP, the Black Panthers defined a “pig” as “an ill-natured beast who has no respect for law and order, a foul traducer who’s usually found masquerading as a victim on an unprovoked attack.” This definition highlights a perception of police as being outside the law and as aggressors rather than protectors. Furthermore, RAP’s 10 Point Philosophy explicitly calls for “the abolition of the prison system that perpetuates modern day slavery and disproportionately affects People of Color,” indicating a deep-seated distrust and opposition to the current policing system.
The protest and the use of the term “pig” drew immediate condemnation from local authorities. Omaha Mayor Stothert expressed that residents were “fed up with hateful and divisive acts,” although her statement only addressed the protest and not the preceding controversial mailers. Similarly, Governor Ricketts publicly denounced the event as “disgusting and vile,” emphasizing that law enforcement officers “deserve our respect and support.” These reactions underscore the deeply sensitive nature of the term and the strong negative connotations it carries for many, particularly those in positions of power and those who support law enforcement.
In conclusion, the term “pig” as applied to police is far from neutral. It is a derogatory term rooted in historical and social contexts, often used by those critical of police actions and systemic issues within law enforcement. While deeply offensive to police and their supporters, understanding the reasons behind its use, as illustrated by the Omaha protest and RAP’s perspective, is crucial for comprehending the ongoing tensions and debates surrounding policing in contemporary society.
