A little more than 8 years ago, American society was forever changed: we had elected the first black president into office. We felt accomplished. The progressives were satisfied, the conservatives weren't pleased... but also weren't rioting. Although the change of power is sometimes filled with strife, more or less, most people approve of Obama and his tenure.
However, that feeling of social progress shouldn't feel as realized, anymore. The past few days are only a small insight to the fractured history and violent tragedy that have plagued America since its inception.
No, these events are not new, they are just more frequent. There are also much better mediums to be exposed to viewing the events. Since the birth of America, society has been taught that it is better to fight for your rights. It's best to fight for what you believe in, if it's your last option. This is a key indicator as to why American society is so violent compared to the rest of the economically substantial world.
There could be many studies to cite and many points to make, but, overall one day our country will have to reconcile with an angry population.
These past 3 days will not be a pivotal point in American history unless the police do something other than what they've been doing. No more adding diversity to certain counties, and no more anti-bias training. Do all police forces need this? No. Not even a large percentage. However, when other officers cannot put blame on another for disrespecting his creed, when nobody can say "that man acted incorrectly in light of the situation," it reflects poorly on all officers. Including "so and so is on administrative leave" and "we are conducting an internal investigation." Eat the blame, for once.
These past three days will not be a pivotal point in American history unless the people do something other than what they've been doing. No more violent protests, and no more burning flags. No more spitting on people and beating them up at political rallies. Not every protest is violent, and not everyone needs to learn to respect other people... but it just so happens all the people at the forefront of societal conflicts probably need to. When cities have to deploy S.W.A.T. teams, tear gas, and shut down entire blocks for protection, perhaps it's time to re-evaluate your protest methods. Including shooting officers. Don't do that, ever.
These past three days will not be a pivotal point in American history unless the politicians do something other than what they've been doing. No more gerrymandering, and no more gridlock. No more filibustering, or adding unrelated provisions in bills. Not every Congress is lame, and not every Congressman needs to re-evaluate their use in society. However, having a 9% approval rating when the government shutdown, and having two record-breakingly low (in laws passed) numbers in back to back terms... should point to the fact that their efficacy should be called into question. Including this election. In the past 10 years, you have done less for the people that elected you than the public servants we don't elect. That is shocking.
Yes. These events of our society are tragic. Yes, they grant insight into an otherwise fractured system. They also grant knowledge we didn't have before. The effect of these events are clear. The path forward, is not.
