By David Hoesly

MondayJul13,2020at7:28AM

In this morning's Gazette a local reporter used the term "Black people" to describe African-Americans.

Shall we expect that reporter to refer to Caucasians as "White people"? Or only as "white people?"

The special treatment of any race when other races don't receive that same treatment is a manifestation of racism.

If a man voted against Obama because Obama is black, that person was exhibiting racism. He was as racist as a man who voted for Obama because Obama is black.

Treating African-Americans as equals requires that whites not consider whites superior to blacks, and that whites not consider blacks superior to whites. And the same requirement applies to blacks' attitudes toward whites. Equality under the law is just that: straight-from-the-shoulder, even-handed treatment of others as we wish to be treated.

Certainly, law enforcers who abrogate the rights of anyone should be dealt with swiftly and justly; that's why Libertarians have advocated for decades the elimination of "qualified immunity" the doctrine that frequently shields the police from being sued when they violate citizens' rights.

In early June, the only Libertarian congressman, Justin Amash (L, MI) introduced a bill, "Ending Qualified Immunity Act," to bring accountability to the "bad apples" who undermine the public's faith in law enforcement.

Justice for George Floyd's tragic death under the knee of just such a 'bad apple' cries for a fix for this problem; we need legislation that brings about justice by holding accountable those who violate others' rights, whether the violators wear blue or are just common thugs.

Rioting in the streets, which results only in the growth of Leviathan State, cannot be good for any citizens, regardless of their skin color.

David Hoesly is a member of the Public Policy Committee of the Libertarian Party of Gaston County.

Read more:

Letter: Why capitalize the 'B' in Black? - Opinion - Gaston Gazette