I wanted to post a couple of the articles on 6/2/2020 but out of respect for the #BlackoutTuesday and what happened to George Floyd that did not happen. The protests on the streets really increased the probability of spreading the coronavirus but the logic of protesting during the pandemic is that if the virus would not kill you then police brutality can. Therefore, going out to downtown Chicago to protest with a few hundred people with the threat of the coronavirus is nothing and pales in comparison. Because even if you survive one as a POC you are under threat from another life-threatening problem. Add to that the systemic racism that POCs face on a daily basis also eliminates multiple chances for a better and healthier life.
Being out in the streets is reminiscent of the films I have seen of the protests of the 1960s. The same issues back then persist now, and it is true, no one cares unless their money is impacted, and then people all of the sudden seem to care. Exactly like back in the sixties! I do not condone looting but protesting in major business areas to promote social justice and putting a pause to the “normal” of our society is necessary. Especially if that normal is not right.
Hopefully, Oak Park, Il will take off its false veneer and join this fight. And when I say that, I mean everyone, young and old, of all races, and faiths included just stand up for equality for everyone, everywhere.