Black & Missing in America: Why We Speak Up for This Often Ignored & Voiceless Group

los2188

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Black and Missing in America: Why We Speak Up for This Often Ignored and Voiceless Group
When the Black and Missing Foundation, Inc (www.BAMFI.org) began in 2008, 30 percent of all persons missing were of color. Sadly, that number has grown -- seemingly to a new record setting incline. Last year, according to the FBI, there were more than 242,000 persons of color reported missing -- that is 40 percent of all persons reported missing -- the key word reported. God only knows about the individuals who were not reported.

While we continue to diligently rally for their safe return, we must acknowledge that all missing persons cases are not treated equally. Let's be very clear, there is a disparity in law enforcement assistance and media coverage. Many of our children are classified as runaways, therefore, they do not receive the Amber Alert or our men and women are stereotyped as being involved in some type of criminal enterprise. Where is the public outcry for America's vulnerable citizens who are being sold into sex trafficking? Some of this rational is due to lack of understanding, and, yes, racism. Regardless of the reason, it is unacceptable.

I remember the tear-stained faces of children and siblings, like, Brandi Martin and Derrick Butler, who are desperately searching for a tiny morsel of information that could lead to the whereabouts of their loved one. Or, the anguish on faces of parents and grandparents like Marcia Williams, Michael Muse and Lolita Smith who would like assistance from the media, law enforcement or the very community that many hold the answers.

Fifteen years ago this Valentine's Day, 9-year-old Asha Degree disappeared from her Shelby, North Carolina home. We are encouraged that the Charlotte Division of the FBI is offering a reward up to $25,000 for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for her disappearance. They are re-examining the case, re-interviewing witnesses and following new leads to determine what happened to Asha.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/natalie-wilson/black-and-missing-in-amer_b_6680744.html
 
I like the the show on TVone about black and missing but it seems they do too few shows and the channel spends more time showing reruns of Fresh Prince. How about they get this show on Investigation ID and put four cases on an hour? The media time is available and people are interested. I think police and media need to feel the pressure from the public at large. The PD get so many complaints from individual citizens they just roll off their backs. But media respond to ratings, media could put pressure on politicians, politicians basically control the police departments, decide how money and time is spent. A lobbying group on K Street and during state legislative sessions in the state capitols would be a great place to start.
 

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