Re: “San Jose, Walnut Creek, Danville declare curfews as conflicts and looting erupt again amid national protests” (Mercurynews.com, May 31):
I am a bookkeeper. There are times I absolutely have to go to my clients’ businesses for essential business activity. To avoid others and care for my children, I often go at night.
I know that if a police officer stops me during curfew, I can explain my situation and he or she will let me go. A man of color will not receive the same treatment.
I don’t believe all police officers are racist, but I know every single one of us is built to be discriminatory. Our brains put people and situations in categories and follow the program for the category.
I refuse to buy my comfort with someone else’s safety. Until those of us who are used to police officers keeping us safe change our behavior, those of us who fear police officers will justifiably continue to do. Lift the curfew — it increases the inequity between us.
Shantha Smith
San Jose
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