MINDEN, Nev. (AP) - A northern Nevada sheriff widely criticized for mishandling a conflict with the county library over the Black Lives Matter movement is encouraging all sides to peacefully express their views at a weekend demonstration planned outside his office.
Douglas County Sheriff Dan Coverley came under fire last week after he posted a letter on his office’s website telling the library not to bother calling 911 for help after the library considered supporting the movement.
Coverley later rescinded the threat, saying his department would continue to respond to all 911 calls.
The (Gardnerville) Record-Courier reports county officials have mapped out free-speech zones at the Judicial and Law Enforcement Center in Minden where protests are planned Saturday.
“Our office has openly encouraged every group to exercise their rights in a peaceful manner without reservation,” Coverley said earlier this week.
“Our office has spoken with representatives from interested parties to discuss differences and build confidence that attendees want a peaceful event with no harm to persons or property,” he said. “I believe that everyone can actively voice their concerns with civility and the safety of our community, visitors and residents is and always has been our No. 1 priority.”
The sheriff posted his controversial letter last week after the Douglas County Public Library considered publishing a statement in support of diversity and inclusion.
“We support #BlackLivesMatter,” a part of the statement said. “We resolutely assert and believe that all forms of racism, hatred, inequality and injustice don’t belong in our society.”
Coverley wrote in response, “Due to your support of Black Lives Matter and the obvious lack of support or trust with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, please do not feel the need to call 911 for help. I wish you good luck with disturbances and lewd behavior, since those are just some of the recent calls my office has assisted you with in the past.”
The library ended up abandoning plans to issue the diversity statement.
Library Director Amy Dodson said the statement was meant to reinforce that the library welcomes individuals of all backgrounds.
“It simply was meant to state our inclusivity at the library, that we are open and welcoming to everyone and we treat everyone equally,” Dodson said.
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