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[Solly Mack]

278. I didn't know what you said until I read this thread.

I avoid GD: Primary by choice. I avoid it because of the extreme amount of ugly behavior during the primary, though most of my jury requests are GD: P related.

I'd have voted to hide what you said.

I'm taking the time to write this because I once defended you, but I can not defend you in this.

It is no small act to apologize so publicly and for that I give credit.

I'm going to say something you might take offense to and please know that isn't my intentions - your words, from both anger and ignorance by your own admission, carried with them the ugly underbelly of a long held prejudice.

You are aware of the existence of this underbelly, and its slow flowing current that will sometimes bubble up and unleash itself -because you're an African-American and a woman - you have witnessed it and felt its sting. You know seemingly good people can unexpectedly say the most heinous things without realizing what they are saying - but their ignorance makes their comments no less harmful, no less hateful, and no less a prejudice. By their words and word choices, you know they hold to stereotypes and beliefs that are rooted in bias and bigotry.

Anger is no excuse either.


I don't hold to the thinking that everyone is a racist. Racism is ignorance and fear nurtured into hate. I don't think everyone hates. I do think hate can be taught, just as prejudices are learned.

I do think everyone has prejudices and must get up every day determined to break that cycle. With every action and every word, people must make the effort to root out those stereotypes and biases inside them. A person has to actively fight against bigotry - in themselves and others.

Your words reflect an underlining bigotry against Jews.

I do understand those feelings of disappointment in my own actions that is greater than than those around me could ever feel. The guilt that brings. So I understand your disappointment in yourself.

I usually bypass the many mea-culpas that arise from Primary season, but this time I choose not to.

I am aware that if I spent more time in GD: P, outside of jury duty, I would spend more time being surprised by people.

But each day people are given a new chance to make different decisions about their beliefs and their actions. I've needed those days and I don't know of anyone who hasn't.

Today's a new day. Each tomorrow brings with it more opportunities to be the best decent person we can be. We all fail from time to time, but what's important is what we are willing to learn and - often as not - what we are willing to unlearn.


In closing, I'll just say...


Good morning, bravenak. It's a new day.