The Gap Widens

Ferguson, MO (NY Daily News)

The immediate aftermath of last night's grand jury decision not to indict Ferguson, Missouri police offer Darren Wilson was worse than what took place in August after Wilson shot and killed Michael Brown.   It played out as a worst case scenario live on cable TV networks, with police cars attacked and rioters fanning out into the streets as if on cue.   Then came the looting and burning of local businesses already barely hanging on, including the store where Brown was videotaped committing a strong arm robbery just ten minutes before his death.   There were the tearful images of a victim's family distraught over officer Wilson going unpunished as crowds ignored their pleas for calm.   Cable news viewers generally reinforced their own opinions based on what network they watched.   Pundits expounded, but everyone seemed to agree that things are not getting better.   Not a moment too soon, President Obama correctly said that Ferguson's problems are America's problems.

While I don't see how the grand jury could have avoided an indictment and resulting manslaughter charges, I respect the decision.   That being said, we are reminded how much work needs to be done to deal with America's racial divide.   White America just wishes blacks would "behave" while former New York Mayor Giuliani rationalizes there are so many white policemen in predominantly African American places like Ferguson because blacks commit most murders.   The fact remains: Ferguson's problems and the anger and hopelessness in many African American urban enclaves will continue long after the news cameras move on.   A violent few will always seize the opportunity to burn down neighborhoods that can least afford to recover.   Look at the extreme situation in Gaza.   Are there some similarities?   The legitimate attitude of powerlessness in the community at large is what opens the door for the few to exploit the many.   People still have to live in these troubled neighborhoods.