Tragedies like the shooting of Michael Brown should remind us of language choices that are far more important than we might think. We too often use mass pronouns and make generalizations too easily. They is not fair if you are referencing specific people who resorted to violence--not all members of the Ferguson community have responded as you characterize. The cops is not fair if you are referencing the officer who shot Brown, or other officers involved in potentially racially involved shootings--not all police officers see color/class/etc. in the public they are charged to protect and serve. If I was a betting man I would guess the overwhelming majority of Ferguson residents are peaceful and seek justice through a fair investigation and peaceful means. I would bet the overwhelming majority of law enforcement officers are blind to demography. Im sad to read so much that suggests the same stereotyping and inclusive/exclusive attitudes that lead to the kind of separation that heightens difference over unity. It is part of the problem--not part of any solution.
Posted on: Tue, 12 Aug 2014 22:08:59 +0000
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