It's interesting to read all the commentary on the need to discuss race relations between citizens and law enforcement ("The world, and our kids, are watching Baltimore in wake of Freddie Gray," May 1). The constant theme seems to be the citizens talk and law enforcement listens. Period. Everyone needs to remember this is a two-way street.
Just as the average citizen of color doesn't want to be labeled a potential suspect for no reason, the police also do not want to be labeled a potential target just because they wear a uniform. Law enforcement is in a no-win situation: If they defend themselves against assault, they get blamed for the attack. If a neighborhood is under attack and there is no immediate police presence, everyone wants to know why the police aren't there when the first punch is thrown. Citizens can't understand why the violence continues to happen, yet they will not cooperate with law enforcement, whether from fear of retaliation or the "don't snitch" culture.
A young lady was interviewed Tuesday night and she said she was "offended" because police showed up in riot gear. Would she rather they just stood around unprotected to be pelted with bricks, bottles and rocks? It's a real shame and a huge black mark on the mayor that law enforcement was there but not allowed to act to protect the public (or themselves) from the hooligans wreaking havoc on the city. If things are ever to change, both sides need to acknowledge that the other has a legitimate grievance and work from there. We must have a dialogue, not a monologue.
D. Pazourek, Sparks