Letter: ‘Black lives matter’ is more than just a slogan

The “Black Lives Matter” gathering and parade was held this last Sunday in Moses Lake. The number of people there was truly amazing, especially all the young ones, the chief of police, the mayor and many of the dignitaries of various organizations, plus members of our great police departments. Kudos to the group of superb young people who organized the whole day. It was a beautiful thing.

During the parade, one young person received a text. It questioned, “Why are you all there? All lives matter.” It made me realize that some people have no real comprehension of what “black lives matter” truly means.

Let’s do some role reversal — walk a mile in someone else’s shoes, as the old saying goes.

Imagine your family: white, hard-working, churchgoing, honest, and you’ve managed to obtain the American Dream. Your child has a pretty nice car to drive. As he (or she) goes out for the evening, you tell them “Be safe.” You receive a call a while later, child in hysterics. “Police stopped me, pulled me out and wanted to know how I got such a nice car.” Can you imagine what you and your lawyer would do?

Regina King, a well-known, successful black actress, had that happen to her son. She and all black families have to set down how to react when stopped by police. Do you do that with your children?

“Black lives matter” simply means that all people, of any nationality, gender or sexual orientation should be treated with the same rules and respect. Equal. That’s what our constitution intended.

Important note: If you are 16 or 17, you are a future voter. Contact 754-2011, 2704 to request a voter’s registration form. Fill it out and return it as a “future voter” and you will be automatically registered when you turn 18.

Please remember to vote.

Joan Green

Moses Lake