Dear Editor,
It is admirable to draw attention or object to prejudice and bigotry when it is justifiable and necessary to do so; but playing the “race card” for no other reason than to intimidate others, stifle conversation and debate, or get what you want at the expense of others, is the height of malevolence, cynicism, and unabashed hypocrisy.
In the larger scheme of things, such strategies do nothing more than generate more distrust and disrespect between people, justify and strengthen rather than weaken and eliminate stereotypes, and undermine the efforts of those who have dedicated themselves to the building of respectful, sharing, and inclusive communities.
And even more troubling is the chance that the disingenuous and self-serving claims that are inherent to the “race card” strategy may in fact foster distrust and prejudice where there was none before.
Let’s concentrate on talking about and solving the problems related to real cases of prejudice and bigotry and tune-out those who try to exploit those unfortunate conditions for their own gain.
We will build a better community for everyone if we do so.
Ray Arnold
Richmond
