DEAR HARRIETTE: I am so afraid for my sons. I have two teenage boys, and every day they go outside I worry because there are just too many black boys being killed. Sometimes the killers are police. Other times they are neighbors, gang members or seemingly random people. It's so crazy that I don't even know what to tell them any more. I don't want them to be afraid, nor do I want to be. But I can't bear the news out there. Too many boys who look like my sons have been slaughtered meaninglessly and their killers not brought to justice. What can I do? -- Protect My Boys, Richmond, Virginia
DEAR PROTECT MY BOYS: If there is any good news on this tenuous front, it may be from Baltimore, where there has been so much unrest after Freddie Gray, a young black man, died in policy custody. After a groundswell of protests, including unfortunate incidents of looting and burning, charges have been brought against the officers who arrested Gray. This says to me that there is a greater chance that probable cause will be considered when it comes to the murder of young black men in police custody. Obviously this is one incident, but leading up to it there have been many -- even in the past year -- that have not even led to arrest.
With a glimmer of hope on the horizon, you also have the reality of caring for your sons. Teach them the lessons that have been resonating throughout our nation. When approached by police, do not run, do not raise your voice, do not reach into your pockets. Speak as little as possible, and follow directions.
As it relates to others, do your best to keep good company. Do not put yourself in a situation that could be questionable from a legal perspective or a safety point of view. Pay attention to your surroundings, and leave immediately if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. Do not travel alone at night for any reason. Walk with dignity, and believe in yourself.