‘Violence by Skinheads’

It is in part true, as one observer puts it, that skinhead violence is a form of “youthful rebellion against pro-civil rights parental and societal norms.” If this is true, it can be addressed. But racism, whatever the origin, runs much deeper than youthful rebellion--and it infects like a cancer unless treated quickly.

Sadly, increasing racial tensions, particularly in Los Angeles, are being inflamed by increased immigration from Asia and Latin America. Tensions are not caused by immigration or immigrants, but increased racial and ethnic diversity tied to socio-economic change can contribute to racial hostilities and xenophobia already a part of our culture. Every generation has experienced this.

We must treat this malignancy. The diagnosis was laid out clearly in the blue-ribbon “L.A. 2000” report, but there was no clear prescription. The implications of increased racial tensions, combined with racial diversity, immigration and economic tensions, are crystal clear. What do we do?

“Teaching against racism” may sound a bit disingenuous and like an oversimplified panacea. It is neither. It can be effective if the proper techniques are used and adequate resources are available to employ those techniques. It won’t cure racism any more than medicine can cure cancer, but it can stop it from developing in some young people if caught early enough. Our children must be taught in elementary school to value diversity, not fear it, and that it is all right to be different. High school students must be exposed to the meaning of prejudice and sensitized to its consequences for individuals, groups and society--before they learn that racism and even racial violence are “fun.” Racial and “religious” vandalism and violence must be prosecuted consistently, as well.

This all takes money--for workshops, dialogues and other age-appropriate prejudice-reduction programs in school, in camps or via the mass media. Private sector support for such efforts is encouraging.

Yes, gangs and drugs must be a priority. Must we wait for skinhead attacks and race riots to see that combatting growing racial tensions and hate groups are a priority too?

JERRY FREEDMANHABUSH

Associate Executive Director

National Conference

of Christians and Jews

Los Angeles