Category: Blog

In presentations or workshops I’ve led, I’ve often referred to the benefit my family received from the G.I. Bill after WWII, allowing my parents to purchase a home. I’ve cited this as one example of white privilege, since only 2% of returning African-American veterans were able to take advantage of that Bill. The value of… Continue reading “Urban Renewal in ROC” – A Very Personal Account

I’ve invited a Rochester realtor to describe for us how segregation is maintained in the ROC area housing market. He has asked for anonymity since he continues to work with the inspectors involved. Background note: The Section 8 housing program, administered by Federal Housing and Urban Development, authorizes the payment of rental housing assistance to… Continue reading Redlining Still Lives in ROC

In a flashback to prior times, a bi-partisan consensus just prior to the new year resulted in the passage of the First Step Act. This Bill begins to chip away at a justice system that has been dubbed an “injustice” system. The cost had become so egregious – in people terms and money terms –… Continue reading Strange Bedfellows for Reform

Two weeks ago Rochester TV meteorologist Jeremy Kappell was heard to utter a racial slur during a weather forecast.  This triggered a series of reactions and counter-reactions that have once again highlighted the racial division in the Rochester region.  Jeremy Kappell was fired. In these last weeks I’ve intentionally sought the responses of both white… Continue reading Jeremy Kappell: One Perspective

I’ve read volumes of wisdom from Black authors, viewed countless videos rich with insight and challenge for white people who would be allies. At times, I’ve thought, “Why am I fussing about writing when there’s so much already written by those wiser than I?” I’m sure some of my readers have wondered the same! This… Continue reading Wisdom from Those Who Know