You won’t hear me ever use the phrase
“people of color”. One of the reasons is
that I’ve been called “Nigger” three times
since the beginning of the year. Each
time, that word was derisively used by
young, male, University students.
The
PUBLISHER’S
Pen
If I were to describe each antagonist, I
would share that Antagonist #1 was a
light-skinned Hispanic, 5’9 and 165.
Antagonist #2 was a brown-skinned
Indian, 6’0 and 205. Antagonist #3 was a
self-described Egyptian-American,
standing 5’10 and I would peg him at
190.
Each incident occurred where I, too the
untrained eye, was out-numbered. What
these youngsters didn’t realize is that I’m
never out-numbered. Here’s the
advantage that I have: I know exactly
where I am at all times. They don’t.
I’m 5’11 and 190. Been around the block
a few times. So, I know how to size up
the opposition. Then, I know which tactic
to apply.
That comes with experience. And, that’s
why some of these University students
end up trapped in circumstances that
they never could have imagined.
HBO has a limited series called “The
Night Of”. Set in New York, it weaves a
tale of how easily manipulated the
inexperienced become when they are
uncertain of situations. I highly
recommend it.
Watch each scene carefully as you do
so. Because while some folks spend
time having conversations with their sons
about how to “act” around police, I urge
you to consider otherwise.
If not, it’ll go in one ear and out the other.