Imagine being worried every day about whether your loved one will survive work.
That's the harsh reality families of police officers across the country are facing. On Tuesday, the wives of local law enforcement shared their torment.
They say they feel the pain of every family who has lost a loved one in recent events, whether in law enforcement or not. They're not trying to imply that "blue lives" matter more than "black lives". Rather, the say their focus is on all lives and the fact that too many people are dying.
"What is going to happen to our officers during this very difficult time?" asks Tina Colon, who's husband survived being shot on duty in 2009 while working for the Milwaukee Police Department. "Right now, it seems as though officers have targets on their back."
These women and their families are terrified.
"There is a real person behind that badge and uniform," Colon said. "They have families and loved ones, and people who are counting on them coming home."
"My husband has learned to let me hug him a little bit longer," said Teresa Robinson.
They believe the vast majority of police officers care deeply about their job and the people they serve. They say treating them as the enemy needs to stop.
"Our law enforcement officers and first responders used to be valued and respected," Dana Carpenter said. "My husband has been an officer for 15 years. Times have really changed. The fact that he and his fellow officers still wake up and do their job every day to the best of their ability, given what is happening in this community, should be admired."
They admit, they don't know what the answer is. But they believe positivity spreads. They're hoping more encouraging and supportive messages can be shared right now as a small way to combat all the hatred and violence.
They also admit they would feel more comfortable if departments had mandatory two-person squads, which is something the Milwaukee Police Department has implemented temporarily in light of recent events.
