Semantics of L.A. Riots

So, Sandra Cox (president of the Southern California Assn. of Black Psychologists) thinks that the word riot is inappropriate in describing what occurred last April (Aug. 3). That insurrection effectively pads the sting. Well, why stop there? After all, if the insurrectors did not riot , then certainly that man in Long Beach who was rushing to the aid of a friend was not murdered. Let’s just call that justifiable carnage. And as for the looting? Well, of course, these insurrectors were not looting . Let’s call that noble plunderism . And those pesty fires that these freedom fighters set? I propose praiseworthy pyrotechnics .

There, Ms. Cox. Now you have a few politically correct euphemisms just to ensure that people don’t have to take responsibility for their actions. Your defense of these criminals is disgraceful.

CHRIS EPTING

Santa Monica