Hey Marley K.,

I’ve had this piece on my to-do list for some time. I’m pretty sure you struck a nerve with many White and non-Black people on this platform with your words. But, I enjoyed the piece thoroughly! Admitting you’re both a racist and support prejudiced systems is the first step toward actual change.

Regarding the paragraph I’ve highlighted, it reminds me of significant changes in America that have actually benefitted groups. Nothing has happened without violence. From the Revolutionary War to even Obama’s ‘Blue Alert’ law, violence has always prompted actions that lead to certain groups being protected or change occurring that helps the US evolve.

Given this, it’s understandable that casualties must occur for racism to be eliminated, or at least severely toned down. Losing friends and parents is only the tip of the iceberg. If there was truly a push to rid America of racism, I can see there being another Capitol riot-like incident or even worse.

J. Stokes