Systemic neglect, not racism, is root of issue
I would suggest that instead of systemic racism, many of our nation’s urban areas are plagued by systemic neglect.
High rates of black-on-black murders and assaults, poverty, substandard housing, failing schools, inadequate health care, declining nuclear families, teen pregnancy and unequal economic opportunity are epidemic. These complex problems have existed for more than 50 years. Any solution has to involve ensuring that children receive a quality education that enables them to compete for success in higher education or learning a well paying trade. Mentoring and financial support for entrepreneurs would also have a positive impact. A fair and competent police force is another important facet to creating positive change.
Calls to defund the police are lunacy. Police are vital in providing safety for all citizens. We must, however, demand accountability for unjust actions and equal treatment for all. The police need to be well trained and equipped. Better pay would help attract the best possible candidates, and an even better effort should be made to recruit minority officers. Finally, financially helping officers to find housing in the areas they serve and developing programs to encourage more interaction between police and civilians would help foster trust between citizens and officers.
Jeff Fisher