Editor’s Note: Sandy Springs Together periodically publishes letters or comments from community members who raise a concern we feel should be considered by the broader community.
Please let us hear your thoughts.
By Robyn Brown
I am a single, black mother living in Sandy Springs.
I have a thirteen year old son. I have had THAT talk with him.
If you don’t know what THAT talk is, then you probably live a life of privilege. That talk includes discussions of how you must perform better than other classmates because you are black. It includes sermons about how to talk and speak to those in authority including police officers.
“Don’t be intimidating, don’t run, always show where your hands are, take off your hoodie, and speak clearly and slowly, because I want you to come home.”
Black Lives Matter! My son’s life matters.
And yes, your son’s life matters too, but do we need to say save all the marine life when we say Save the Dolphins? Do we put water on all the houses just because one house is on fire? Black homes are on fire! Black men and boys are dying!
We need the support of the entire community to put out those fires and save our families.
I envision a diverse and inclusive Sandy Springs. I hope to continue relationships with police officers who care about all members of the community and especially embrace our young men of color.
Sandy Springs Together is working towards that same vision. Come walk with us as we learn, grow and change together.
