This Yahoo! Message Board post really bothered me:
Around 4pm today there was a young African-American (teenager 15-18yo) on a bike wearing a black jacket and black knit cap. I watched him ride his bike up and down Vernon a few times checking out cars and apartments.
I called the OPD non-emergency number just in case for peace of mind. It seemed like he was checking out the neighborhood.
Just thought I would give everyone a heads up.
That caused me to answer back with a plea for all to first, ask questions. That teenager could very well be someone who lives in the neighborhood who's just riding close to home. I talk to people; so should you. If you're reading this and have some weird racial boundary issues, do us all a favor and get rid of them. Please.
Thanks!
Around 4pm today there was a young African-American (teenager 15-18yo) on a bike wearing a black jacket and black knit cap. I watched him ride his bike up and down Vernon a few times checking out cars and apartments.
I called the OPD non-emergency number just in case for peace of mind. It seemed like he was checking out the neighborhood.
Just thought I would give everyone a heads up.
That caused me to answer back with a plea for all to first, ask questions. That teenager could very well be someone who lives in the neighborhood who's just riding close to home. I talk to people; so should you. If you're reading this and have some weird racial boundary issues, do us all a favor and get rid of them. Please.
Thanks!
Comments
I didn't realize that there were any neighborhoods in Oakland where seeing young African Americans (or any other youth) riding down the street seemed out of place...