Stop all senseless killings of our youth
Recent news stories imply that racial profiling is a major concern for black parents. Never before have we seen such extensive coverage by politicians, celebrities and the media for the killing of a black teen. Why?
The fact is George Zimmerman is the only neighborhood watch person accused of killing a black teen. The truth is that of the thousands of black teens killed in two years — some innocent bystanders — the vast majority were killed by young black males, usually gangbangers and drug dealers. In these cases color of skin did not matter.
Much advice is given on how to avoid profiling, but no mention is made on how to protect kids from gangs who kill for shoes or for wearing the wrong color jacket. The world is not an equal playing field for everyone — never was, never will be, whether its blacks vs. whites, Nazis vs. Jews, Protestants vs. Catholics, or rich vs. poor. Emphasizing their differences helps nothing.
Is racial profiling the only conversation black families must have in hopes of parents ensuring their children’s safety? Police must be given authority to rid us of gangs. Focusing on new laws or racism will not stop the killings; enforcing all criminal laws strictly will be more helpful. Trayvon Martin’s killing was a real tragedy. Let’s use it to find real ways to prevent the senseless killings of all our youths.
Robert W. Kuechenberg
Palatine