Joe Swain Jr.: Facing bitter truths

Regarding the Jan. 2 news article “Seeking consolation after child’s ‘senseless’ killing”: Is it possible that this painful tragedy leads both white and black communities to face bitter truths?

In the year just passed, the atrocity of the Charleston church murders was only the most spectacular example that racism is not over. The economic, educational, social situations that black youth face simply aren’t the same as those enjoyed by white America. And when that inequality leads black youth into trouble with the law, the criminal justice system does not treat everyone the same.

I believe white America has to face the consequences of this. But I also believe that black America has to face the reality that the greatest threat to black lives is violence in the black community, not murderous racists or trigger-happy police.

Those who put aside books and pick up guns are not victims; they may be responding to horrible conditions, but their answer makes things worse, not better. Racism is far from over, but the doors of opportunity are open to a degree almost unimaginable in my youth. Both communities need to look at their own faults, not just point at the other.

This story was originally published January 9, 2016 at 1:00 PM with the headline "Joe Swain Jr.: Facing bitter truths."