Blaming Society
Luis J. Rodriguez may be “beyond anger” in his article, “The Price of Social Neglect: Too Many 3-Year-Olds Die” (Opinion, Sept. 24), but I am even more beyond anger in reading his condoning, blaming and pointing-the-finger-at-society view of gang violence.
Rodriguez blames everyone and everything from law enforcement, lack of jobs, fewer economic means and cuts in social services for the violence we have in our streets. Interestingly enough, the only people not blamed are the perpetrators themselves.
Instead of pointing the finger out there, maybe it’s time that people pointed the finger where it belongs, at themselves. Yes, not everyone begins on a level playing field, yet many, like Colin Powell, have risen above their circumstances and taken responsibility for the outcome of their lives.
Rodriguez calls for solutions, yet blaming society will not solve our problems. Teaching our children personal responsibility for their lives will.
JENNIFER BURTON BAUER
Dana Point
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