My Latest for CNN: Have we truly seen justice in the trial of Ahmaud Arbery's killers?
What is the relationship between justice and accountability?
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I breathed a sigh of relief when I saw the news trending on Twitter.
Ahmaud Arbery’s killers had been sentenced to life in prison.
After being convicted of stalking and ultimately killing Arbery in what could justifiably be called a modern-day lynching, the only remaining question was whether their punishment would fit the crime.
Indeed it did.
Short of the death penalty, the three men convicted, Gregory and Travis McMichael and William “Roddie Bryan,” received the most severe penalty our legal system allows—a lifetime behind bars.
But is this justice? Or is this merely accountability?
What is the relationship between the two? How do we who hunger and thirst for righteousness respond when racist perpetrators face punishment?
I got to write about this question in an opinion article for CNN. Here’s a sample, you can read the rest on their site.
Simple accountability, let alone true justice, is by no means guaranteed in a criminal legal system that protects police and vigilantes even when people die at their hands. No one should have to work so hard, flooding the streets in protest, nor be so anxious about whether racists will be held accountable for their actions in a court of law. An effective legal system would ensure the guilty face the consequences for their crimes on a more consistent basis.
Although the struggle against racism continues to be a pitched one, sentences like the ones handed to the McMichaels and Bryan offer a sign that change is possible. The convictions indicate persistent pressure can make a difference.
Read the rest of the article on CNN.
What do you think is the relationship between justice and accountability? How did you respond to this sentencing?
Accountability is the first step. Everyone should’ve accountable for their actions. But Justice is much bigger. It involves healing and restoration. It involves transforming the hearts of the McMichels to help them understand that what they did was wrong and for them to want to make restitution. It involves changing the subculture that caused 3 men to think that they were right in chasing a black jogger in their neighborhood with guns. Justice is trying to bring Gods kingdom to earth. A big goal, but why did the founders of our country say they wanted liberty and justice for all? It’s the American dream.
Good insights. Thank you for writing this. Glad CNN is publishing it.