We have seen this urban upheaval movie before. Atlanta, 1906. Tulsa, 1921. Detroit, 1943. Baltimore, 1968. Los Angeles, 1992. Baltimore in 2015 is heartbreaking to watch, to think about its causes and to wonder about our prospects for the future ("The road through Baltimore," May 5).
The late state Sen. Clarence Blount said that people need to have a driving force in order to solve a problem. Which leaders from government, business, labor unions, education and the faith community will convene to be part of a driving force to renew Baltimore? Gov. Larry Hogan said that the "right to demonstrate is a fundamental part of our society, but damaging property or putting innocent bystanders in danger will not be tolerated." I agree with that. He stood up and took action, calling in the National Guard. I also hope to hear Governor Hogan say, "Social and economic injustice will not be tolerated." And then see him take similarly clear and decisive action.
At the individual level, each of us can listen more to the voices of Baltimore residents. One way to do that is to join organizations that advocate for social justice and to read their publications. I hear many people embracing the word "rebuild." I say, rethink and then rebuild. The long-term solution must be framed in an honest dialogue about racism, be comprehensive as to strategy and stakeholders, and persist. If we don't do that, we'll watch the same tragic movie again.
James Tschechtelin, Odenton
The writer is a former president of Baltimore City Community College.