Riots and Violence

A few nights ago in a Swansea street there was a massive riot. It got ugly, very ugly. Apparently a local lad had died. I don't know how, but there was a vigil that went south when, I'm reliably informed, the cops got involved. The community's reaction was depressing and predictable. I don't condone it, sat in the comfort of my own privilege. I'm not even sure I understand it, and I can only shake my head that in stead of a more productive approach we again perpetuate a cycle of violence. All with the help of the state. 

It's decidedly depressing that this is the only choice the state, with all its power privilege and resources, is prepared to make. But, given who our home secretary is, it remains no surprise. Nothing will break the cycle of violence otherwise. Unfortunately, thanks to years of media demonstration, attempts to reach out and help this community will be met with rabid cynicism. We've all seen the disgusting stories, intended to keep the poor in their place and scapegoat them. The kid who, after murdering his entire family, was 'rewarded' with a holiday etc. Of course that's just one side of the story. But facts are a currency capitalism doesn't afford its adherents. Better to trade in outrage and provide no answers. 

It is this same cycle of violence that is being played out in Israel. The most disingenuous aspect is how the media chooses to intervene. It's vituperative when it's Hamas ill-advisedly firing ineffectual rockets (relatively speaking). But when it's Israel stealing land, bulldozing homes, and slaughtering children, they have nothing to say. You don't see the cycle of violence unless you can see the whole picture. But the media, biased to one side, will not show you. So it is or will be with the Mayhill rioters. You will see the pictures of burning cars and smashed windows. You will hear the spluttering outrage of the police. You might even hear the understandable fear of the rest of the community innocently caught up in this. There are no winners in this, when the community turns on itself, but we can choose to make things better. These impoverished communities could receive investment. The kids could be taught real self worth and not forced to look for it in the expensive mirrors of capitalist aspiration. 

But it's more likely that anger will win the day. Seeing no alternative, because the media stifles that discussion, people will give in to their anger and not think a bit more about the situation. I understand the fear and the anger; if it was my property being smashed and torched I'd want resolution, but does that only come from retribution? That's all the cops can offer. Locking up impoverished kids from deprived communities just costs the taxpayer while destroying their lives, and for what? If we cannot answer that, then we have no business doing it. We must turn things around.