More 20 year retrospective...

I keep thinking I won't post another collection of retrospectives on the riots in LA in 1992, and then I read another or hear another, and think, they are too good not to share.  And this is a moment that should be remembered.

Los Angeles Union Station, Summer 2010

When I finally listened to the story about the teacher, who was ten in 1992, who was trying to figure out how to "teach" the riots in his history class, I had a realization about the importance of memory, particularly in these cases.  Some have focused on the key players, and others on the bit players, and still others have tried to focus on the way Los Angeles has changed or not in the past 20 years.  The Los Angeles Times obviously has a different stake on this front -- this is their backyard -- some of their stories demonstrate the complex nature of this story.

And, of course, it has given many folks the opportunity to say what it felt like for them, in the mix.  This one from a Black journalist living in the affected area, this one from a future journalist at the Lakers game, and this who was assigned to watch the reactions of the LAPD.  

Los Angeles Union Station, Summer 2010

This is a great story ...

"Fujii had been handed what he calls "a crazy gift." He could remember only the edges of what had happened to him."

I would argue that here is another crazy gift ... that he could look at the situation in this way.

I am yearning for this kind of clarity and equanimity right at the moment, so I am especially taken with the statement... maybe, someday.

Leaving Los Angeles, Summer 2010