I will not understand the events that took place April 27 in Baltimore. It is a human tendency for us to seek explanation and rationalize why violence takes place. But in reality, the only people who will understand are those who live in that community.
Before you discuss it with your family, friends and colleagues, please take time to realize most of us live in a much different, sheltered place that is separate from the living conditions, working conditions and interactions with citizens and state or local officials seen in Baltimore.
Please don't try to weigh in or judge what the people of that community should or shouldn't have done. Remember, a lot of us live in a much different community where our daily interactions are defined by constant privilege from generations of access to resources and wealth. This privilege, often taken for granted, enables us to attend good schools, have jobs that pay a decent living wage and possess transportation to get to work.
It is 2015, and we remain separate and unequal. How many times do we as a people need to be reminded of this and when will we choose to open our eyes and stop ignoring, pretending and arguing that we're not? When will both communities unite as one, supporting each other through empathy and mutual understanding?
Colin O'Keefe
ADVERTISEMENT
Rochester
