I didn’t realize how incredibly blessed I was living in Harlem, in a world full of future-driven, forwad thinking folk from all over the planet. Don’t get me wrong, I truly adore the sunshine and overwhelming generosity of the many new friends I’m making.
While living in my fabulous corner of Manhattan, it wasn’t possible for me to see how much, New York with all of its issues, was a very safe coccoon brimming with intellectual, humanly rational and empathetic people.
It occurs to me now that I was living in a microcasm of the country where the -isms are openly discussed, debated and not tolerated. I’m also painfully aware of how much I went unthwarted because of them. Obviously, I’m not oblivious. I fully realise that inequality exists over the entire planet. That’s not what I mean…
After moving to Phoenix, and meeting the countless number of people that I have, I feel it is important to note that many of my new friends encounter racist and sexist behavior and commentary on a daily basis. Since arriving here at the end of January, I’ve experience several instances myself. This is human behavior that I have been the focus of in the past. Before moving here, I liked to believe was behind me. However, it is behavior that I’ve been reawakened to.
I have found myself deeply disappointed and angry. When I witness this behavior, there is a physical pain I feel, like a fast, deep heart break. It truly hurts. Just yesterday, I realized that I truly hoped this antiquated ideology had ceased in the 1980’s and we still have far to go!
With the issues of human civility facing me, the reason I chose my vocation is extremely clear. I adore working with attorneys, and fully respect and admire them for their mastery of United States Law. The structure of our laws maked them adaptable with the capability of being reworked over time. I belive this construct was put in place in order to provide the best possible life for our citizens and standing for the law is what attorneys do.

You may think that I have an idealistic viewpoints, but I lived in Manhattan for more than 22-years, studied the rulings of Thurgood Marshall during his reign on the Supreme Court, and pay attention to civil justice changes, so I thoroughly believe in the brilliance of our legal structure. So, please realize that my opinion is only mine – not meant to be fodder for agreement or disagreement…
To all attorneys –KUDOS to You!
One of my older aunties used to tell me, “Don’t worry baby, what doesn’t kill you will make you stronger.” She wasn’t kidding either! I’m still getting squeezed to be more than I ever thought I could be. So I guess I’m a full fledged butterfly Ready To Soar!
Other articles you may be interested in:
How to Create a Personal Brand as a Civil Rights Lawyer – Using Speaking Engagements, Published Articles & Social Media Web Sites as a Way to Make a Name for Yourself
The Most Racist Thing That Ever Happened To Me, by Toure -The Atlantic.com
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