“Kids” and “police violence” are two terms I never thought I’d put together, but here we are. In today’s world, this is a conversation many parents face, especially if you’re raising children of color in an urban environment (hello to anyone in that boat; I’m waving my hand). Just last month, my son had a completely uplifting experience with local law enforcement. While hanging out with his cousins at an outdoor mall, an officer kindly reminded them about curfew and sent them on their way to stay safe. So, how do I explain to him that not all officers are that friendly?
How do I prepare him for the possibility that he might be viewed as a threat as he grows older? How can I explain that a girl in his class could be treated harshly by someone sworn to protect her? How do I address the harsh reality that police have historically targeted men who share his father’s, grandfather’s, and uncles’ appearance? It’s a daunting task, and while I don’t have all the answers, I’ve put together some key points to guide our discussions about police violence.
1. Not All Officers Are Bad Apples.
In light of the numerous incidents we hear about, it’s crucial to remember that there are officers like the one my son interacted with—who genuinely want to foster safety and peace in the community. It’s tough to admit this as a parent of kids of color, but it’s true: not all police are out to do harm.
2. Racism Is Real!
You can’t have a conversation about police violence without acknowledging the ugly truth that some individuals harbor prejudice based on skin color. Ignoring this aspect would be like pretending the sky isn’t blue. Many victims of police violence have faced mistreatment simply because of their race.
3. Girls Are Affected Too!
Let’s not forget Sandra, a young girl in South Carolina who faced brutal treatment by an officer. Or the girl in Texas who was pinned down while wearing her bikini. Conversations about police violence must encompass our daughters as well. It’s easy to focus on our sons, but we must teach them to look out for their sisters too.
4. Start Early With “The Talk.”
While you don’t need to dive into the gory details of police violence with a five-year-old, preparing them for the possibility of encountering or witnessing such events is essential. Kids like Tamir Rice and the young girl who witnessed Philando Castile’s tragic end remind us that it’s never too early to start this conversation.
If it hasn’t hit home yet, it’s clear that today’s parents need to have “The Talk” with their children. For more insights, check out this article on home insemination kits. And don’t forget to explore Cryobaby’s home insemination syringe kit for more on this important topic. If you’re looking for trustworthy information, MedlinePlus is an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, discussing police violence with your kids is a challenging yet necessary task. Acknowledge the complexities, educate them about the realities of racism, and ensure that both boys and girls understand their rights and responsibilities. Conversations like these can empower the next generation to navigate the world more safely.