PJ Media

Not to in anyway defend or excuse the comments of the good reverend(s), but there’s no denying that some of our policies (war on drugs) have created an environment in which the african-american community views the powers that be as the enemy. I believe that a black man born today faces a 1 in 3 chance of landing himself behind bars. While blacks use and sell drugs at similar rates to the general population, including whites, they represent almost 40% of those arrested for drug violations – despite representing only 13% of the population. The stats get even more disparate if you factor in conviction rates and length of sentences. And, of course, the suburban white communities where prisons tend to be located are granted all the additional funding and electoral representation that comes with having more people (black prisoners) in their jurisdiction. Conspiracy theory – maybe. Fact – absolutely. I’d be pissed to and would naturally and predictably gravitate toward a culture of hate and victimhood. Afterall, if you’re being punished disproportionately to the benefit of the dominant power structure, I’d say you qualify as a victim. While I recognize the argument that handouts beget complacency and a culture of dependence, I think that shifting drug war resources toward education and job training for communities of color would go a long way toward overcoming this unfortunate and unacceptable situation. The stick ain’t working, let’s break out some carrots.

Disclosures: I’m Jewish, but I’m really bad at it. If I saw a young black man on the street at night I would be afraid but would not cross the street. I might also ask him to sell me drugs.