Gershon Wolf Poet Free verse

Let's Talk About It

OK. You say we've got systemic racism
   What should we do about it?

You should eliminate racism immediately
   And how would you suggest we do that?
 
Simple: Terminate all racists today.
   How can we tell who is racist?

Well, you know, by how they talk.
   Can you be specific?

Sure. Like if they use the 'N-word.'
   Well, that's been our policy for 25 years already.

Have you fired anyone?
   Yes. We've fired 15 officers in 25 years.

No kidding?
   No kidding. What else should we do?

You should fire any officer who uses excessive force in an arrest.
   Well, we've fired eight of those types in the last ten years.

Really?  I don't believe it.
   Here are the files on all eight. Take a look.

Hmm... You're right... I guess you guys have been trying to, uh, well, ---
   Eliminate systemic racism?!  Yes, we've been working hard to do that.

So, I guess I don't have to take a knee anymore.  At least, not here.
   Perhaps not, friend.

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Jennifer Proxenos June 7, 2020 at 11:06 AM Racism exists throughout Planet Earth, some truthfully acknoledge it, some lie about it and many hide it, the true racist is the one who hides it. A clever dialogue in free verse. Hugs, Jennifer. Gershon Wolf June 7, 2020 at 12:43 PM I actually think that almost all of us in the USA are racist, to some extent. I also think that most of us have become oversensitive to every little racial slight they experience... When people spit at me and yell 'Dirty Jew,' I shrug it off. It's their problem... Oh, well. I try to greet everyone cheerfully and withhold judgment. That's God's province. Happy Sunday, Jennifer! :) gw

Sandra Adams June 6, 2020 at 10:22 PM sadly racism exists in all races, all professions, but there are more good people than bad in that same token... everyone should not have to pay the price for one bad egg should they? good write Gershon! hugs Gershon Wolf June 6, 2020 at 10:34 PM So true... Not that anyone's overgeneralizing here. (lol)… Nice to see your avatar pop up, my 'vacationing friend.' Hope all is well. Cheers, Gershon

Kim Rodrigues June 6, 2020 at 7:19 AM See, I think it’s important to hears all sides, discuss, love each other too. Gershon Wolf June 6, 2020 at 10:33 PM Me, too... Yet love without respect doesn't work either... Sad, but true. Love and Respect, Gershon

Caren Krutsinger June 6, 2020 at 6:43 AM It is sadly true that people judge others automatically and immediately based on superficial things and preconceived notions. Many generalize "all policemen, all Christians, all African Americans," which is so silly. Until we get over this stupidity and manage to find only policemen who are benevolent and kind I have no idea how to fix this. Nicely done. Gershon Wolf June 6, 2020 at 10:33 PM You are so right. New media should take a U turn from how they 'report news.' Thanks, Caren

Lindsay Laurie June 6, 2020 at 12:54 AM G'day Gershon … money and weapons equals an iron fist. What race of people who have a vast majority all around the world show little respect to minorities and the poor. It's a cold hard fact but nobody will give up power - stay safe up your way Gershon - Lindsay Gershon Wolf June 6, 2020 at 10:32 PM It's a tough world, isn't it. And yet, specious reasoning on the part of these 'protestors' shouldn't be tolerated. Saw the Mayor of Minneapolis, MD sworn at in front of a rally today. He had promised systemic reform of the police dept., apologized profusely for what happened---and then was told FU and kicked off of the streets (can you imagine?!) for saying that he would not disband the police department there... That = anarchy = America going up in flames. Can't have that... Cheers, Gershon