Unjust Assumptions: Baltimore Mayor Calls Out Journalist for Racial Stereotype About City Employee's Attire

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott criticized a local journalist’s insinuation that a Black city worker was linked to a gang based solely on his attire. In a social media post, Scott shared screenshots of an inquiry from journalist Gary Collins, who questioned if an employee, seen wearing a blue jacket and hat, was part of a gang while accompanying Scott and Maryland Governor Wes Moore during a safety walk. Collins’s email claimed that blue clothing is associated with gang affiliations, specifically the Crips. Scott responded vehemently, condemning Collins’ comments as “ridiculous, racist, and dangerous,” and challenged the notion that a blue hat in Baltimore should raise suspicion. He pointed out that numerous local schools feature blue as their color, questioning the implications for students and staff. Additionally, Collins inquired about the city’s oversight regarding employees who may be part of criminal enterprises, referencing a former Safe Streets supervisor charged with drug offenses. (Photo: Wikipedia Commons)