Earlier today, lorentztransformation commented and reblogged my post condemning the criminals that were hell bent on causing destruction during the Michael Brown grand jury verdict protests in Oakland the other night.
God, I want to print this post out and highlight all the anti-black racism. The worst part about it is how it sounds like the sort of accidental racism that happens instead of the more conscious.
First, thanks lorentztransformation for noticing my writing. I appreciate the reblog. And I hope you had a great Thanksgiving.
I don't know how my previous post was "anti-black racism." Not one word in my post was about race, mentioned race, touched upon race, or even put race in any context. My post simply meant to single out the criminals that hide behind peaceful protesters, as I've said in the very first paragraph of the post.
In the hours after the destruction, I was heartened to hear that neighbors came out to help businesses that were affected by criminals. It shows the kindness of the community and the support these local businesses have.
I couldn't care less what race the vandals that destroyed Oakland businesses were. Anyone that is looting and vandalizing, regardless of their skin color, is still a criminal. I'm sure when the dust settles, we'll find out these criminals were White, Black, Asian, Latino, purple, pink, and rainbow colored.
It's clear to me that you would rather engage in race baiting than community building. You'd prefer to stir the pot rather than pitch in to help shattered businesses. You seem to want to tear down this city rather than help it prosper. And most alarmingly, you'd rather defend criminal behavior rather than participate in a productive conversation.
If that's the case, then I pity you and lament the fact that you cannot respect the community that we live in.
If this is untrue, then I want to see you publicly denounce looting and vandalism on your tumblog and post a picture of you pitching in to help these damaged businesses clean up. You could also substitute that photo for one of you supporting local businesses during tomorrow's Plaid Friday celebration instead.
It's oh-so-easy to sit behind your computer and be an armchair commenter. Instead, have some pride in this community! Lead by example and show everyone what you're doing to make this community a better place for everyone to live, work and play in.
