This week, my son celebrated his eighth birthday. After a wonderful day filled with family festivities, I took a moment to sit him and his five-year-old sister down for a quick chat before bedtime. My son was already aware of the tragic events surrounding George Floyd and the impact it had on so many. However, I needed to discuss something more pressing with them.
I asked my children how they thought the public learned about what happened to Mr. Floyd. Without hesitation, my son replied, “Because someone filmed it.”
I went on to explain that there’s always a possibility we could encounter someone dangerous like George Floyd did. I told them that if we were ever pulled over or faced a similar situation, and my wife wasn’t with us, I would give them my phone, and it would be their responsibility to record what transpired.
Taking my son’s hand, I asked, “Do you understand why this is so critical?” He met my gaze, nodding solemnly, embodying the weight of this responsibility that seemed far beyond his eight years.
Throughout my life, whether in hospitals, courtrooms, or on battlefields, I have tried to safeguard others. It’s unsettling to think my children might need to protect me in a way. However, my wife and I — like many parents of color — feel compelled to have these conversations. We recognize that our achievements do not shield us from police violence or racial injustice, and that a mere recording may not guarantee my safety.
While my son may not be able to save my life, he could very well safeguard my dignity and ensure justice prevails in my name. For those interested in home insemination and related topics, this is one of our other blog posts, feel free to check out this link for more information. Additionally, this site provides valuable insights on fertility enhancements for men, and this resource is excellent for understanding pregnancy and home insemination.
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In summary, the experience of having to prepare my child to record a potential police encounter speaks volumes about the realities many families face today. It’s a sobering reminder that the safety of our loved ones is a constant concern, and we must equip them with the knowledge to protect themselves and advocate for justice.