In 1967, The late Dr Martin Luther King spoke In California two years after The Watts riots in August 1965, and race riots in Harlem the summer before. King spoke a few minutes to try to explain the cause of rioting to a majority white audience. Within that speech, King said that “riots are the language of the unheard.” This exert has been quoted a lot over the weekend , as many cities across the world experience unrest.
Not to be mistaken for rioting, there were many peaceful protest taking place in many cities , including Milwaukee. I attended a few protests and the pain was undeniable, and evident in the energy that was displayed. What excites me the most, was the unification of other races including whites and Hispanics, coming to areas like Center street to show support. Unfortunately some things transpired that would be classified as rioting, looting and vandalism. In no way am I condoning the behavior, but i understand the root cause. Poverty, targeted killings, living a life where your repeatedly reminded of how “meaningless” you are.
Some felt they needed to make themselves heard, but collectively we know that we must find a way to put that same energy, and passion into sustainable solutions. Extensive Mental health checks for all officers, updated training on deescalating situations, maybe heavy impact guns that are not deadly. Of course strict laws and punishments for situations like this. In a place like Milwaukee where we have been deemed one of the “ worst places for African Americans,” there is so much more work that needs to be done in job wages, housing ect. Please stay safe and do things to calm your mind, calming sounds, comedy movies and above all Pray.
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