I read a very interesting article that inspired my musings today. The article by Laura Washington, "When blacks hurt each other: your side," in the Chicago Sun Times asks some very pointed questions of media, law enforcement, politicians, ministers and activists about the black community. These questions, though specific to the problem of black on black crime, are universal:

"When blacks hurt each other: your side," By Laura Washington - Chicago Sun Times

Last week, I wrote that the fallout from the Derrion Albert case proves one painful truth: African Americans are killing each other. We have to acknowledge and take ownership of black-on-black crime if we ever hope to find real, lasting solutions. Most of my correspondents agreed. Here's a sampling, edited for space: When Dr. Cosby and others have spoken out, we have blamed them for bringing the issues to light. Until parents, grandparents and others who are raising children . . . hold themselves and their kids responsible for their actions we will continue on this path of self destruction. . . . Thanks for a good conversation starter. ** Why are the media, law enforcement, politicians, ministers and activists so reluctant to identify gangs, leaders, members, turf, meeting sites and operations? When are we going to stop reacting to the violence with anguish, tears, protests and calls of "stop the violence" with a more proactive war against the gangs? Calls for parents to control their kids won't help either, because the parents of gang-bangers lost control of their kids long ago.

Ms Washington's article focuses on a problem that plagues the black community specifically but the underlying failings of community and parenting that have created the problem can be applied to all of society. We have failed to create a supportive environment for raising healthy, educated, well-mannered kids so that they become law abiding, productive members of society...and that is what is wrong with our "village".