I'm going to drop this here...

[OneGrassRoot]

102. I realize this specific interaction likely feels like a broken record...

but since you and I haven't had this specific discussion, I'll share my personal perspective, as a white Sanders supporter.

First, #BlackLivesMatter isn't an organization, per se. It is a cause, a movement, a message, with networks of people advancing that message. I liken it to the early days of #OWS as far as structure, or lack thereof.

If we stay stuck on the intentions and actions of two people, we will remain mired in this morass of indignation.

Some of us may disagree or be uncomfortable with the tactics of those two women while simultaneously not only continuing to fully support the movement and message itself but also not condemning the two women and, quite simply, having respect for the anger and rage they express which is rooted in real pain.

Again, some of us simply did not take it personally.

Bernie didn't appear to.

But even if every single person of color who is engaged in the #BLM movement truly was "targeting" Bernie, which isn't the case, I can think of one very, very good reason for starting very specifically with Bernie to disrupt with the intention of being seen and heard in order for the message of racial justice and equality to be at the forefront of this political campaign season.

The reason is that Bernie and those who support him are already in many ways in alignment with and supportive of racial justice. It is the precise audience who would be most likely to not only listen, but join them in putting racial justice -- very specifically, not merely lumped in with economic justice -- at the forefront of discussion.

These protests thus far (at least from what I've seen, and they have included other politicians over the last week) are about ACTING UP. They are silent discussions or silent protests. These protesters are adamant about BEING SEEN AND HEARD, having felt invisible for so long (except to police). They may come off as if they're attacking the candidate and the audience but, again, that offends some people while it doesn't others.

I can't explain the difference other than personality types.

I agree about hoping the candidates don't become disingenuous, like planting people of color for photo ops or whatnot. Personally, I would like to hear Bernie speak VERY SPECIFICALLY to the rift which has occurred over the last week. Put it out there and let's talk about it, and he can lead the conversation.