Letter to the Editor: Empathy needed in the face of tragedy

I wanted to take a moment and respond to a recent letter to the editor. I’m a firm believer of the first amendment, having sworn numerous times to defend it (with my life, if necessary) during my military and public service career. Those who choose to exercise their first amendment rights should, at a minimum, expect to receive a rebuttal. Democracy is a door which swings both ways, and none of us operate within a vacuum.

The letter in question addresses the death of Springfield, Illinois resident Sonya Massey. Massey was shot by a former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy, who is currently being held in connection with her death. The author of the letter to the editor (a tri-states resident), explains that her family has suffered greatly from the impact of these events, and defended the deputy’s family in the aftermath.

What’s undeniably missing in the statement is an equal distribution of empathy. As the author requests understanding and respect for her family at the incarceration of their loved one, there is no mention of the incalculable loss the Massey family is incurring. While the judicial process unfolds, the family of former deputy Grayson has the opportunity to send letters, cards and obtain visits to a correctional facility, while the Massey family can only greet their loved one in a cemetary.

However, the letter written by the family member brings up some legitimate concerns, which should be brought to the forefront. First, the crime which the former deputy has been charged with will be adjudicated through the system. It is in the best interest of everyone, if that process is thorough, unbiased and transparent. This is the way that you rebuild trust in the system. Anyone who resorts to attacking family members (accused or victim), isn’t doing anyone a service. What many don’t understand is that by bombarding social media, there is a possibility to pepper the jury pool. People read those comments, and they share them. It would be naive to think that those comments might not be on someone’s mind during jury selection.

But back to the point of empathy… The author questioned why protesting was occurring, and stated that such action was “the amusement or disgust to the public.” This is a disturbing statement, because it insinuates that those that are seeking an outcome that suggests accountability for one’s actions is somehow a nuisance, which minimizes the value of human life. So, for the sake of cultural competency, I will share why, as an African-American veteran, that this is an opportunity for education.

The protesting was the voice of a community, which feels marginalized and at times threatened with its interactions with law enforcement. Far too often, this interaction results in the use of unnecessary, or even deadly, force. I add the caveat to that remark, that I believe that the overwhelming amount of law
enforcement officers work hard to place biases aside and treat all people with dignity and respect. I, too, have worn a badge and a weapon (in my younger years), so I understand the deep responsibility that comes along with that job.

Which is why the authority the job provides is so sacred, and when that trust is violated, it’s even more egregious. Many people have the luxury of interacting with law enforcement, without understanding the anxiety or apprehension that can occur, for no other reason than being a minority. Sundown Towns exist in Illinois, as well as other parts of the country. When you’re a minority in trouble, and you can’t call the police, upon whom can you depend?

The second point the author made was the impact that has yet to be felt by the family of the accused, in the form of a lost wedding, lost potential for grandchildren, etc. Noticeably absent is the empathy for the Massey family, and the family functions, graduations, and congratulations for family achievements,
which Ms. Massey will not be able to participate.

See, that’s the thing about crime, it’s never victimless. There’s collateral loss on both sides.

So, how do we grow from this tragedy? First, we acknowledge that a tragedy has occurred which affects the Springfield community, and has rippling effects on our nation as a whole. We should regard all life as EQUAL AND MEANINGFUL. Specifically, that means not regarding someone as “less than” because of their address, skin color, religion or economic status. If we’re going to quote scripture, we need to apply that same attitude evenly, not as it suits the situation. Finally, would it be ok if we tried to think in another person’s shoes, every now and then?

Pain is pain, no matter who’s the recipient. And there’s certainly enough hurt to go around.

Mark C. Philpot

Quincy