Community Leaders Fire Back At Miami Police Union Calling For Beyoncé Boycott
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Community leaders are firing back at the head of the Miami Police Union who called for the boycott of Beyoncé's upcoming concert.
It's a story that has made national headlines.
Miami Fraternal Order of Police Union President Javior Ortiz claims Beyoncé's Super Bowl appearance and new music video "Formation" is sending an anti-police message.
Because of that perceived message, the union said it's voted to boycott Beyoncé's Miami concert – urging police to not accept off duty work.
With Miami in the fray, City Commissioner Francis Suarez weighed in on the issue Friday evening.
"Our officers have a right to decide if they want to volunteer," he said. "And, obviously, Beyoncé has the same right to express herself as she feels is appropriate."
But calling out Ortiz, saying enough is enough, is the Miami Community Police Benevolent Association which issued a statement "imploring the city's leadership to do whatever is necessary to put a stop to Mr. Ortiz antics."
The statement added, "Ortiz can no longer be allowed free and unfettered license to destroy the reputation of one of the finest law enforcement agencies in the nation."
Underscoring the battle between blue and Bey, Miami-Dade police tweeted out Friday, "In order to dispel any rumor, the Miami-Dade Police Department is not involved in any boycott."
"As you say, everyone has a right to express themselves," CBS4's Michele Gillen said to Suarez.
"That's the beauty of this country," he replied.