I work in Howard County at the library but I have a story from last year that happened where I live (different county). My son and a friend went to a National Park last year (right before the Pandemic). It was a nice day and they wanted to take a hike and explore history. My sons have grown up going to the parks and love them. They completely got questioned and patted down by a police office. They were accused of having pot. They did not and are completely the best kids. Super friendly, polite and smart. At first I was really mad that this happened to them. But, then I had a completely gut wrenching thought. If my son and his friend were black, this situation could have possibly been much worse. This upset me even more. What about all of my friends’ sons who are black? What would have happened to them? I love all these amazing young men and don’t want any of them harmed or treated badly. This has got to change! We need to start thinking of our boys, especially young men who aren’t white in a positive light. Don’t always assume the worst in young people.
