Patty Johnson
Jul 22, 2017 · 2 min read

Rather than placing funds toward walling people in, why not focus on practical needs in our communities like programming that nurtures children’s strengths and gifts, just as any parent from any family of any race would naturally want? How about addressing the problem of food deserts and access to health services? And how about the police showing up within a reasonable time instead of an hour later or not at all?

But then again, I must be dreaming because it all goes back to your point. African-Americans are relentlessly dehumanized in a million different ways and all of the time. I work in Lawndale and there’s no good reason my patients shouldn’t have access to care, resources and community enrichment as do other communities.

There are clearly demarcated lines in Chicago where differences in race and socioeconomic status are not mistaken. We know that crossing Austin or North Avenue is going to result in a very obvious change in scenery, and an unspoken “get out” sign, if you’re the wrong color.

Communities abruptly change from lush tree-lined streets in front of thriving businesses versus empty storefronts void of greenery, or smoothly paved streets versus those riddled with potholes, damaging people’s cars as they go back and forth to work or drop kids off at school everyday.

It’s not a west side or south side problem. It can’t be a bullshit “us versus them” mentality. The onus is collectively on all Chicago communities to work toward desegregating one of the most divided parts of the nation. The onus is to face our biased perspectives and call others out on theirs, even those of us who think we’re so aware.

An articulate examination of the blatant racism that runs through Chicago. Racism is born out of ignorance. Keep educating.

    Patty Johnson

    Written by

    Aquaphobic psychologist. Chai alchemist. Was lost, now found at www.pjtemple.com.