Respect
My ancestors were black slaves, American Indians and white slave owners. Some of them realized the American dream by the kidnaping, rape and brutalization of the others. Now I want some pay back. Forget cash settlements, forget government subsidies and don’t even think of preferential treatment. I don’t even wish anyone to admit guilt.
Simply treat me with the same common decency and respect that you do your friends and neighbors; give me an equal chance to pursue my American dream. Judge me on personal merit and not skin color, and I will consider all debts “paid in full.”
RONALD PORTER, San Bernardino
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
