The Ice-T Warning

There is something about the controversy surrounding Ice-T and his song “Cop Killer” that really bothers me (Saturday Letters, June 20, July 4). Everyone seems to be focusing either on how this song will affect the young men and women who listen to it or the moral responsibility of the company that produced it. We’re missing the point.

Ice-T is not going to change the way people think with this song. He is, however, reflecting a disturbing truth. The anger, attitude and disrespect for the Establishment expressed in his song is already widespread in the country.

If people had been listening to Ice-T’s music during the last couple of years, they would have sensed the growing discontent and anger that led to the recent riots. We should take note of this ominous warning and try to find ways to effect positive change.

MARK ALLEN CHURCH

Los Angeles