I’ve always felt safe in our neighborhood so news like this was certainly jarring. This L stop is about three blocks from our townhouse.
What was even more disturbing was reading reactions on a popular South Loop blog. Many were curious about what exactly happened and whether it was gang related (understandable), but there were one or two who felt it necessary to make blanket stereotypes, re: not-so-subtle racism.
A big emphasis for Urban Village Church in 2012 (and beyond) will be on diversity and taking hard looks at our own preconceptions, stereotypes, and hidden racism. Shootings, no matter where they take place, mar the glory of God’s world. Misplaced castigation does, as well.