Antone's Nightclub
What Does It Mean in 2022?
RECEIVED Fri., Oct. 7, 2022
Dear Editor,
Kirk Watson’s TV ad portrays him as a progressive, and one of his claims is that he fought for racial justice. But what does that mean in 2022?
The battle for racial justice is not just with the Trumps and Abbotts and Patricks of the world. That’s not enough. We need leaders with the courage to confront our own unconscious bias, and what’s baked into our civic and social systems. That takes courage because it invites backlash. If you want to see racism in Austin, look at the policies that have made Austin the most economically segregated city in the country.
If Kirk Watson fought for racial justice, what were the results? The median racial wealth gap in Austin ensures inequality. These issues were not addressed. Police misconduct and brutality continue to this very day. Those are the most public issues of inequality and social injustice. Kirk Watson has been in a position to address these issues. Based on his impact, does he really deserve a second chance?
Rep. Israel brings a new focus and new look at these very same issues of racial and social justice based on solutions and best practices. Her bold stance on these issues deserve the opportunity to address them.
Celia Israel has shown her ability. She doesn’t pretend to have all the answers. She listens, asks questions, and has proven she’s willing to do the work. I want a mayor who understands it’s 2022 and has the ability to not just “get things done” but balance the scales to make this city work for all of us.
Kirk Watson’s TV ad portrays him as a progressive, and one of his claims is that he fought for racial justice. But what does that mean in 2022?
The battle for racial justice is not just with the Trumps and Abbotts and Patricks of the world. That’s not enough. We need leaders with the courage to confront our own unconscious bias, and what’s baked into our civic and social systems. That takes courage because it invites backlash. If you want to see racism in Austin, look at the policies that have made Austin the most economically segregated city in the country.
If Kirk Watson fought for racial justice, what were the results? The median racial wealth gap in Austin ensures inequality. These issues were not addressed. Police misconduct and brutality continue to this very day. Those are the most public issues of inequality and social injustice. Kirk Watson has been in a position to address these issues. Based on his impact, does he really deserve a second chance?
Rep. Israel brings a new focus and new look at these very same issues of racial and social justice based on solutions and best practices. Her bold stance on these issues deserve the opportunity to address them.
Celia Israel has shown her ability. She doesn’t pretend to have all the answers. She listens, asks questions, and has proven she’s willing to do the work. I want a mayor who understands it’s 2022 and has the ability to not just “get things done” but balance the scales to make this city work for all of us.
Nelson Linder