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I Get That You’re Handing Out Pardons, But Can We Vet Them Better Next Time?
I’m not mad at black men being pardoned. I would have loved for Mumia to get out though.
Today is a joyous day in the eyes of most Americans. Notice I said most, not all. For most, today is the first day of America’s new relationship with a seemingly stable and efficient leader. I can see how most are happy.
To others who aren’t followers of white nationalist gangs and who aren’t crumping in front of police though, today is yet another day in the saga of being black in America. Nothing to raise hell over or shout praises for.
But I admit seeing 45 pardoning a slew of famous black celebrities like Kwame Kilpatrick, Lil Wayne, Kodak Black, and Death Row founder Harry O definitely caused me to raise an eyebrow. I can’t say job well done for a man whose mere presence reaffirms white nationalism, entitlement, and mediocrity, but I can acknowledge his willingness to work with other black celebrities and weigh their opinion. I’m sure A$AP Rocky would agree as well, but that’s not what I’m writing about today.
No, today, I’m writing because I am upset that out of all the pardons we could give, not one has been offered to Mumia Abu-Jamal. Former President Barack Obama made history in his…