Monday, August 01, 2005

A Racist Murder

Over the weekend a particularly horrible murder took place in Liverpool. Anthony Walker, 18, was walking his girl-friend home when he was attacked and cowardly hit from behind in the head by an axe. Anthony is Black! Prior to the attack, he and his girl-friend had been the subject of racial abuse from some "adults" leaving a club. Obviously nothing is certain yet in this case, but the trend does seem clear.

Even in the 21st century, there are people who are frightened by those who appear different. Their view of themselves is challenged and they clearly feel they need to assert or regain their perceived position in life. And the only way to do this is to belittle others. Perhaps they generally believe they should be superior. However, what these people forget is that we were once all black!

My thoughts are with Anthony's family, and my hope is that they come through this with their dignity intact. What they must try not to do, though the temptation I'm sure will be great, is to descend to the level of those you find comfort in racist abuse and who may also have committed this terrible crime.

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