I think it is a sad indictment on a large part of the African American segment here that they have to experience this. However, I would agree that if there were more leaders in this community that got as much air time as the right Reverend and Al Sharpton, maybe things would change. Rap music and the Hip-Hop culture (not necessarily the same, but...) have essentially taken over as the focal point for people in this country, let alone abroad.
Speaking for myself, while it might be considered racist, I do become more concerned for safety and family when I enter certain areas of the country - and honestly, it is a mental fear more of black and hispanic individuals and someone trying to cause us harm or robbery, etc. Very sad, but true. I also worry when I enter a bar in what I consider to be a backwards-ass country or midwestern local bar, because of the white dudes that would just as soon fight as not. And yes, to your question, DB, I think that our media and entertainment are at the root of those images (at least the black and hispanic ones).
I remember being accosted by several hispanics brandishing gang colors and attire in Long Beach, CA. I remember taking a wrong turn and having to drive down the main drag in East St. Louis, IL. In a convertible white mustang, with the top down, no less. When school was letting out, no less. I remember having two black men become so aggressive when asking for money outside the bars in the Westport area of Kansas City that I turned tail and ran for one of the bars. I remember being very drunk and very lost in San Francisco, walking around trying to find my hotel, and being extremely scared the entire time. Nothing unique about these scenarios, but they all happened to me, and probably taint my thinking. I usually always think of the possible downside in where I am going, and consider what could happen. Racist? Maybe. I don't know - hard to say. I have been in bar fights with a few drunk white guys, many times partially my fault. I always am concerned when traveling in foreign countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, etc., what could happen.
By the same token, I still have some very good friends who happen to be black, hispanic and asian. I know there are good and bad segments of each group, and the good always suffer because of the bad.
Along the lines of Wayne's suggestion, maybe take him to a larger establishment that is populated by a multi-racial clientele, known for no problems - a restaurant or bar, etc.
Good luck to you.
