Reparations Means Taking This Seriously

Ok, I must admit: this is very frustrating.

On May 7, 2008 and April 25, 2008 we discussed this issue. And now, on June 18, 2008, we need to discuss it again. When will enough become enough?

Reparations means taking this seriously. Police brutality is still a pariah in the Black Community. Watch this video:



Did you hear this child's screams? Do you like what you see? I hope so, because we are the ones who allow this to happen. I allow this to happen. YOU have allowed this to happen. If that is not enough, read this. To add insult to injury (no pun intended...well, maybe intended), they ruled that the injuries were unintentional! How could you say the officer used excessive force, but then rule the injuries unintentional? Must be to protect them from further legal repercussions.

Reparations means taking this seriously. We asked you before: What Can We Do to Protect the Community against Police Brutality? We also asked for your help in Building Effective Police Review Boards.

It is our responsibility to defend our community. And, with all the talent and expertise within the Black Community, we ought to be ashamed of ourselves that these problems persist. We have the power to change this dynamic! We have the ability to create an environment where the police serve their rightful purpose of protecting and serving the Black Community, rather than abusing our people.

Why must we continue to cringe when we see the police? Even us - law abiding Black people - flinch when we see those flashing lights. Think about it: does your heart flutter when you see them flashing behind you?

Reparations means taking this seriously. We cannot wait for the Government to do something about police brutality. Nothing will be done. We have to be the ones to force a change. Our ancestors in the struggle for Civil Rights did not wait for the Government to end segregation. They forced the hand of Government. And, they fought so that we - their children - could have greater opportunities. The eyes of our ancestors look down upon us...what will we do?

And so, we must push so that our children will have greater opportunities. We must act now so that our children can play in communities where they live without fear of the police. We must fight for a social climate where the hearts of our children need not flutter at the sound of sirens.

So, again, join our Google Group. Engage the debate. Post your thoughts and together we can change the way police treat our people.

Come and Get Your Reparations!