The Axiom Of Respect
Individuals Demonstrate Valid Behavior
By Treating Themselves And Others Respectfully
And Respecting Only Those Who Earn It

Racial profiling and discrimination are inexcusable and continue to be serious issues in America, and we know that as whites we can never fully understand how it feels to be African American. However, after reviewing the facts of the case, it appears to us that (unlike the case of Dallas Police Officer Robert Powell and Ryan Moats) race did not influence Cambridge Police Sgt. James Crowley's actions in the incident with Professor Henry Louis "Skip" Gates Jr., and while there are many things to be learned from this incident, one that is not receiving the attention it deserves is the value of loyalty and the importance of standing up for what is right in the midst of opposition.

In today's world, we don't often have the opportunity to see loyalty in action. In fact, many of us would find it challenging to remember a time when numbers of individuals stood up for someone they believed in to those more powerful and popular. Magna Sententia defines loyalty as the quality of faithfulness and steadfast allegiance, and fortunately for all of us, Cambridge law enforcement officers have provided a magnificent example in their support for Sgt. Crowley:

Far too often, when we see injustice, we find it easier to keep silent for fear of negative repercussions. Listening to these officers stand up for their friend and fellow officer during a time when he is being falsely accused and disparaged in many national media outlets is a wonderful model for us to follow when we witness injustice in our own lives: Let's not be afraid to express our allegiance when we know someone else is on the receiving end of unfairness.

We commend the brave, loyal officers who came to Sgt. Crowley's defense, and thank them for their service to their community and especially for their character.

Anna and Ellie Sherise
Creators of Magna Sententia
Authors of Magna Sententia: The Logical Cure for Our Society