The NYPD is mulling a strike on Independence Day, as an effort to remind people what life would be like if they “declare independence” from the police.
The flyers circulating among the NYPD is encouraging a case of the “Blue Flu” -calling in sick- on July 4 as retribution for an anti-police climate and police reform legislation.
“NYPD cops will strike on July 4th to let the city have their independence without cops,” read one text message circulated among police. “Cops that say we can’t strike because of the Taylor Law/ The people and this city doesn’t [sic] honor us why honor them [sic].”
According to the New York Post, the Taylor Law effectively makes public worker stoppages punishable with fines and jail time.
“Police officers like you and me took an oath to protect strangers regardless of race, class or gender,” another text read. “Today we are vilified and must stand as one.”
The text gives instructions on how to call out sick, with contingency plans on how to continue the protest if requests are repeatedly denied.
“If you are held because of the #Bluflu, request [an ambulance] and go sick from command,” the text read.
NYPD PBA President Patrick Lynch noted that while “Blue Flu” is a long-running myth, the officers have had enough.
“Over the past few weeks, we have been attacked in the streets, demonized in the media and denigrated by practically every politician in this city,” Lynch said. “Now we are facing the possibility of being arrested any time we go out to do our job.”
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