Shockley on ‘Plantation Society’

I would urge the Rev. Madison T. Shockley II to look within himself for the answer to his question, “Why do I still feel like a slave?” (Commentary, Jan. 19). Why would an accomplished individual, secure in his or her own achievements, allow an offense (whether racial, religious or economic) from some yahoo to impact not only his life but cause him to question his own self-worth?

Almost as troubling was Shockley’s admitted post-”Amistad” desire not to “sit around with a bunch of white people and talk about my feelings.” A sad comment from the individual responsible for having arranged the cross-cultural viewing and discussion of the film.

For those of near African descent (as Shockley puts it) who agree with his description of a “plantation America,” I would suggest that real freedom lies not in so-called reparations, legislation or government decrees, but in one’s ability and courage to plow straight ahead while leaving excuses behind.

JIM GRADY

Anaheim

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For Shockley to take credit and feel wronged for a piece of history like slavery is an injustice to us all and especially “his people,” who actually had to endure that unfathomable experience. As a young white male, I do not pretend to know what it is like to be a black man, so please do not pretend to know what it is like to be a slave.

I have, however, been refused service at Denny’s, stopped without probable cause by the police, followed by store security and not hired by a prospective employer. I’m not naive enough to act as if racism does not take place. Still, I just wonder sometimes if blacks are out for “racial equality” or “racial revenge.”

RUSSELL D. JONES

Culver City

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I agree wholeheartedly with Shockley. However, unlike him I have no desire to see “Amistad” or any other film depicting slavery and/or oppression, suppression, depression, etc. of any race of people. It is too depressing. Slavery occurred. Get over it. Move on to something positive regarding blacks! There is more to black history than slavery. I personally don’t feel less than nor inferior to any man. I feel equal to and as good as anyone.

There is a double standard here in America with separate meanings for every law. One has to find peace in one’s own heart and space. You continue to show one medium of history, slavery, and you’ll always feel like you are on a plantation, let alone living in a plantation society. America is so class-conscious. All people are royal.

VALDEMENIA N. WILLIAMS

Los Angeles