Crime is increasing Trigger happy policing Panic is spreading God knows where we're heading
Oh, make me wanna holla Throw up both my hands Hey, make me wanna holla Throw up both my hands.
Marvin Gaye's Inner City Blues came out in 1971. Almost 50 years ago. And yet these lyrics ring so true today. Seeing Black people being killed in the streets, often at the hands of white police officers who face no consequences, has become more than tiring. More than stressful. More than heartbreaking. I cannot even find the words to describe the emotions these situations continue to evoke. And as I try to figure out how to cope with everything, the thing that keeps popping into my head is that we have to find a way to extend the fight beyond social media. We must understand and capitalize on the other avenues available to us to attempt to make lasting change. This reflection is especially poignant as a launch my campaign for Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner here in my community. Perhaps this is the launchpad for something bigger that will truly allow lasting change through policy and legislation.