Robert Woolley’s commentary defends racial profiling


(Robert) Woolley’s article [“Profiles in Suspicion,” July 16, Xpress], in which he claims, “A book’s cover does tell you something,” defends racial profiling with the erroneous argument that minorities commit crimes at higher rates.

That’s a broad insult to make without any evidence to back it up.

I wish Robert were aware of the insidious, oppressing impact of racial profiling. The officer he quoted was right on when he said race does not make an individual suspicious.

I hope that you, Robert, will read something below to help you understand how important it is that you don’t use race in making your “judgment call.” How would you feel if you were routinely treated like a white supremacist just because you have a bald head? Please explore these links to become more educated on the harms of racial profiling:


Go to: ywcaofashville.org, then select What we do / Eliminating Racism / Racial Justice Resources;


Look under resources on this page:  www.olliasheville.com/diversity-initiative;


Read this ACLU article: www.aclu-or.org/blog/racial-profiling-hurts-everyone-regardless-color;


And consider reading The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander

 

Kris Wallace

Asheville

 

SHARE

Thanks for reading through to the end…

We share your inclination to get the whole story. For the past 25 years, Xpress has been committed to in-depth, balanced reporting about the greater Asheville area. We want everyone to have access to our stories. That’s a big part of why we've never charged for the paper or put up a paywall.

We’re pretty sure that you know journalism faces big challenges these days. Advertising no longer pays the whole cost. Media outlets around the country are asking their readers to chip in. Xpress needs help, too. We hope you’ll consider signing up to be a member of Xpress. For as little as $5 a month — the cost of a craft beer or kombucha — you can help keep local journalism strong. It only takes a moment.

About Letters
We want to hear from you! Send your letters and commentary to letters@mountainx.com

Before you comment

The comments section is here to provide a platform for civil dialogue on the issues we face together as a local community. Xpress is committed to offering this platform for all voices, but when the tone of the discussion gets nasty or strays off topic, we believe many people choose not to participate. Xpress editors are determined to moderate comments to ensure a constructive interchange is maintained. All comments judged not to be in keeping with the spirit of civil discourse will be removed and repeat violators will be banned. See here for our terms of service. Thank you for being part of this effort to promote respectful discussion.

Leave a Reply

To leave a reply you may Login with your Mountain Xpress account, connect socially or enter your name and e-mail. Your e-mail address will not be published. All fields are required.