[codygman]

For racism == violence:

One particular racist doesn't have to commit violence. The effect is systemic, and as a result law enforcement can be used to enforce violence on people of color.

Picture yourself in a convenient store. A black male with a hoodie on is shopping. You decide you don't like him, and notice an officer outside. You tell the officer that the man is stealing items from the store.

What do you think is going to happen? What would happen with a white male? The outcome you know would happen is what defines privilege.

[guard-of-terra]

"You decide you don't like him, and notice an officer outside. You tell the officer that the man is stealing items from the store"

If I do that (with any "him") I'm a nut job, asylum material. Amn't I?

In my opinion that just does not happen by sane people.

[codygman]

Something I just ran across that is similar to the situation I posed above:

http://atlantablackstar.com/2014/09/11/man-made-911-call-led...

[codygman]

My point is the fact that the situation outlined above is easily possible is a huge problem.

[guard-of-terra]

To be fair, I don't really understand how it would resolve to anything than an awkward scene.

However, I understand that americans are so trigger-happy that any confusion can turn into tragedy.