Destruction in the Name of Justice

There are times when I simply know that my topic is going to be controversial and while some will agree many will not.  This is one of those times.

Let me be very clear.  The latest shooting of a Black man by a white police officer is shocking and disturbing and feel free to add any other words to make your point.  It’s one that leaves you shaking your head in disbelief except that the same thing keeps happening time and time again.

However what is equally shocking and disturbing is not only the rioting and violence that has broken out in Kenosha, Wisconsin over the shooting of Jacob Blake but what continues to take place in Portland and other cities all summer long.  How and when will that end or will it simply become a part of our daily lives.

I am a 64-year old white man who will never know what it is like to be Black and face the type of prejudice and inequality that many live with on a daily basis.  I think most of us will agree that it is shameful and it needs to stop.

However I can question why neighborhoods and cities are literally being destroyed by the same people who live there...or are they?  It does appear that in many cases protestors looking to cause damage and destruction are from out-of-town and they leave those that live there to deal with the mess.

There are also many instances in which those committing the violent acts are doing so in the same place where they and their families live and work.  Clearly it’s the result of frustration over incidents like the latest in Kenosha but in the end burning down businesses owned by those in their own community make things that much worse.

Professional athletes and others have been very vocal in their calls for justice and equality and for the most part have been applauded for the stands they have taken.  It would also be helpful if they would use their powerful voices to call for an end to the violence that has America on edge.