Message: | I hate that subject line, but I had to come up with something. I know that I am not a racist. But I want some feedback on something.
Keep hearing about Phillips barbecue. Wanted very much to check it out. Despite living in Los Angeles for some years, I had never been down to the Crenshaw District before.
Well, the other day, me, Mr. 29 year-old white boy in his brand new BMW decides to head down there for some BBQ.
So here: I have never before been in a situation where everyone, on every street corner; walking into and out of every single store, shop and food place; driving next to me, in front of me, and towards me, is black.
Is the fact that I was unnerved by this proof that I am somehow a racist? Or is this what we call a bad neighborhood, simply because the people have a different skin color?
I truly feel bad that I am somehow conflicted by this. But some people may argue that, because I was driving into the heart of the 92 riots, I am perhaps a bit justified in my trepidation.
BTW, the way it ended: I didn't find the joint (apparently it is difficult to see from the street), and I bolted eastward on Vernon. Halfway happily, through more "bad" nabes.
Help me.
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