As an old movie buff, I seek out good science fiction. There are a number of movies that capture the current angry American sentiment. Quickly coming to mind are “Roller Ball,” “Escape from New York,” “V for Vendetta,” and the very recent series, “The Hunger Games.” There are other very good movies that speak to the widening schism between the “Have and Have-nots” and the potential for anarchy. Today’s science fiction may be tomorrow’s reality. A Jules Verne tale inspired the 1902 French silent film, “A Trip to the Moon.”
The focus in Ferguson, Missouri, addresses a policeman firing twelve shots at an unarmed black teen, eight of which injured and killed the boy. The evidence suggests the teen stole some cigarillos at a convenience store and had an altercation with the police officer in question. The confronted lawman shot the teen. The Grand Jury exhaustively reviewed evidence and did not recommend the police officer be indicted.
Some residents and or outsiders of a disappointed community reacted violently to a perceived lack of justice. Other U.S. communities have taken to the streets. In the last month a policemen shot and killed an innocent teen on a dark stairwell and another officer shot and killed a 12 year old holding a fake gun. It is unlikely either policeman will face charges in what are being described as unfortunate shootings. Explain that to grieving loved ones. Policemen have good reason to be nervous on patrol. There will be more incidents.
Another casualty of these incidents is the eroding faith in our system of justice and an escalating distrust of police, particularly by underserved populations. Sadly, the current political polarization and rigid personal ideologies makes solutions difficult. The poor job outlook adds stress. Good jobs are scarce for both the middle class and the poor. Yet, there is a perception that the rich are getting richer and are insensitive to the plight of those less fortunate. The gap between the “Haves and Have-nots” widens and dissatisfaction grows.
The Ferguson incident has the potential to push communities over the edge if their cries for justice are ignored. Americans distrusting law enforcement, losing hope for decent employment and the ability to care for their families, pose a much greater danger to our nation than any outside enemy. To blame the poor for being poor, and blame the jobless for not having jobs will not move us forward. Slashing safety nets and government jobs offer no solution.
Understanding why incidents like Ferguson are happening is required if we are to relieve increasing pressure in poor and middleclass communities. America’s history is one of hope and the rewards of hard work. Large populations that lose hope and do not see the rewards of toil will seek other forms of governing. Monarchies and brutal regimes have fallen to such dissatisfaction. It could happen here.
Marc J. Yacht MD, MPH
Dr. Yacht is the former director of Pasco County’s Health Department and recently ran for Pasco County School Board.
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