Then I read "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson and I became more and more convinced that things in this nation really need to change if people of color are to receive true justice. There is still so much institutional racism in this country, especially in the deep South. The number of black men who are sentenced to life in prison or even death with feeble or non-existent evidence is reprehensible.
Today I began watching "13th" at the suggestion of my teenage daughter and this documentary feels like the nail in the coffin in my ignorance regarding the criminal justice system of the United States.
There is undeniably so much good in our system. It was (and is) a beacon and example around the world with its tenets of innocence until guilt is proven, the right to a trial by jury and many, many more precepts designed to protect citizens.
But.
It seems clear to me that the rights and protections that are in place to protect us are not extended equally to all citizens. People of color are often denied these rights and protections at an alarming rate.
I know there are so many good and honest public servants in all sectors that give their blood, sweat and tears to protect and serve us. Unfortunately, a hopefully small but powerful segment of these civil servants are using their power in reprehensible ways.
I don't have answers. Right now I am simply trying to listen and learn. To open my eyes, mind and heart to the invisible privilege with which I was born. To listen to the stories of those who have suffered and been marginalized.
If you are interested in truth and justice and equality, I would recommend reading or watching the resources I've mentioned above. There is much, much more out there for us, but these are a good start.
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