Why Do They Burn Down Their Own Neighborhood?

As a result of Freddie Gray's death, April 27th, 2015 will be remembered throughout the United States especially Baltimore for many years to come. Instead of remembering the day when thousands came out to pay tribute at Gray's funeral, it will be remembered as a day when the youth of Baltimore negatively impacted the minds of so people who have been rooting for the "hands up don't shoot" momentum.  These young people burned down 15 or so buildings, including a CVS Pharmacy that was looted prior to the fire. This is a pharmacy that was lured with much convincing to establish their business in the community. This is a pharmacy that took care of the prescription needs of so many needy residents. These young people also set ablaze a senior citizen's community center that was expected to house approximately 60 elderly residents. In addition, they set ablaze at least 15 vehicles belonging to residents in the community. The riot will be remembered as 20 police officers were injured when they lost control of the crowd. Earlier demonstrations in the city were intended as a result of the death of Freddie Gray and the built up frustrations of the injustices that have been experienced by Black males throughout the years at the hand of police officers. However, the riot was more than police profiling and the death of Freddie Gray. Baltimore has been filled with a troubled history. Nevertheless, in the 21st century, it would have been hoped that much would have been learned from the 1968 Baltimore riot and other riots that change cannot occur if residents burn down their own neighborhood. Instead, the neighborhood generally deteriorates ten fold since no large organization such a CVS, will want to consider re-building or no new businesses will consider putting up a structure that may be looted and set ablaze. If those young people put as much time and effort into excelling in the classroom as they did in committing vandalism, looting, arson, as seen during the riots, they could acquire knowledge that would positively affect their lives, make their community a better place to live, and become an influence in affecting the long-standing injustices.
~ contributed by J. Y. Campbell