Sgt. James Crowley just had a news conference at AFL-CIO HQ in Washington, about the Beer Summit with Professor Gates, President Obama, and, to round out the foursome (and prevent a two-on one visual image), VP Joe Biden, a man of legendary affability, if not substance.
He came across as a very sincere man, determined to make something good of the situation, and, I suspect, very concerned over the future of police-community relations in Cambridge and elsewhere across America.
He indicated that he and Prof. Gates will be having a future discussion, perhaps more. He called this a "positive step in moving forward." He said of Professor Gates that "he has the credentials to enlighten me a bit" and spoke of the Professor learning more about the difficult job police face every day.
All parties agreed to keep the substance of the discussion private, so few details emetged. No apologies were rendered, and evidently the President said little. When asked about his role, Sgt. Crowley quipped that he provided the beer.
I believe that America is beginning to get a better measure of a very impressive man. He wants to play a positive role, he looks honest, and he looks smart. He does not seem to shoot off his mouth, like certain other people.
Prof. Gates may or may not make a statement of his own. He will have a tough act to follow if he does.
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