Day in and day out we have been bombarded by the press with the President, Dr. Henry Louis Gates and Sgt. James Crowley. The issue of Dr. Gates arrest surrounding the officers claim that Dr. Gates was acting uncooperative and disorderly when he asked the Dr. to show him his "freedom papers". This is what it all boils down to and any time during slavery if you were stopped by someone of the other color and asked to produce your freedom papers. You had no other choice but to comply with their demands.
Now it seems to me in my opinion, that Dr. Gates may have blown off a little steam when he was asked that infamous question. It goes onto show and should be a constant reminder to anyone who think they have risen above their color and to a permanent position in society. No matter how many colleges that one has attended, nor how many degrees that one has obtained. That doesn't mean a hill of beans to an officer of the law. I think this may have served as a reality check to those who think that they have finally made it in America.
I really honestly believe Sgt. Crowley's account as to what happened on that day. When he asked to produce his freedom papers. Dr. Gates flew into a when asked about his freedom papers and wanted the officers badge number. He then preceded to follow the officer onto the front porch of the home. This was probably his biggest mistake because the Sgt. Crowley who reportedly warned him then placed him under arrest. I really think that all of this could have been avoided if the Good Dr. would have given up his freedom papers.
Dr. Gates reportedly stated to the Sgt. that he didn't know who he was messing with. I find that equally convincing being that you have someone with the mentality of his counterparts who sometime think that they are above the law. Dr. Gates soon found out that he wasn't above the law nor was he equal with his counterparts.