Opinions & Observations: Acts of service can help heal ’empathy deficit’ amid protests, COVID-19
Like many, I have watched with an ever-shifting mix of inspiration, concern and sadness as cities across the country bear witness to mass protests not seen in decades.
It has been inspiring to see communities rise up against systemic violence and oppression, though the near constant police sirens and circling helicopters outside lead to worry for those in the streets. In the end, each day is filled with sadness for individuals whose lives are consumed with fear, violence and feelings of being unheard.
But while protesters have rightly highlighted pervasive injustice in America, the current crises also lay bare the immense compassion and empathy deficit in this country. The same instincts that have led some individuals to resist measures necessary to slow the spread of the Coronavirus make it difficult for others to fully comprehend why videos of Black men being killed at the hands of police are so terrorizing.