re: I simply cannot believe how such an innocuous statement has spiraled

So many people will never understand the black experience because you are not of that shade. I wish words were enough! Just try to listen for a moment. Being quite for a few minutes can be like medicine. While you are quiet open your heart and try to understand what has happened over many years in this country. Open a true book of history, sit down and listen to the older generation of color, visit places that makes you uncomfortable, try something new beyond your own experience and digress and release your mind to understanding.

I was born in Baton Rouge in the 70's and I can still see a burning cross in my yard at the age of 9. Certain people didn't want my family in that neighborhood. Thank God my dad was trained as a paratrooper in the military and served our country well. He didn't take any shite from anyone!!